GNAQ Targeted dsRNA Compositions And Methods For Inhibiting Expression

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) targeting a G-alpha q subunit (GNAQ) of a heterotrimeric G gene, and methods of using the dsRNA to inhibit expression of GNAQ.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/121,253, filed Dec. 10, 2008, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/185,543, filed Jun. 9, 2009, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/244,780, filed Sep. 22, 2009, which are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference.

REFERENCE TO A SEQUENCE LISTING

This application includes a Sequence Listing submitted electronically as a text file named 16267US_sequencelisting.txt, created on Dec. 10, 2010, with a size of 560,474 bytes. The sequence listing is incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) targeting a G-alpha q subunit (GNAQ) of a heterotrimeric G gene, and methods of using the dsRNA to inhibit expression of GNAQ.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) are a family of heterotrimeric proteins that couple cell surface, 7-transmembrane domain receptors to intracellular signaling pathways. G proteins are composed of alpha, beta and gamma subunits. The G-alpha q subunit (GNAQ) is one of the G-alpha subunits. GNAQ mediates stimulation of phospholipase C-beta and hydrolysis of GTP.

Mice with GNAQ mutations leading to overexpression of GNAQ exhibit dermal hyperpigmentation. A point mutation in human GNAQ was reported in a melanoma sample (Bamford et al (2004) Br J Cancer, 91:355-358). In WO/2008/098208 (PCT/US2008/053484), the Applicant's described the presence of mutations that constitutively activate GNAQ in melanocytic neoplasms, e.g., uveal melanomas.

Double-stranded RNA molecules (dsRNA) have been shown to block gene expression in a highly conserved regulatory mechanism known as RNA interference (RNAi). WO 99/32619 (Fire et al.) disclosed the use of a dsRNA of at least 25 nucleotides in length to inhibit the expression of genes in C. elegans. dsRNA has also been shown to degrade target RNA in other organisms, including plants (see, e.g., WO 99/53050, Waterhouse et al.; and WO 99/61631, Heifetz et al.), Drosophila (see, e.g., Yang, D., et al., Curr. Biol. (2000) 10:1191-1200), and mammals (see WO 00/44895, Limmer; and DE 101 00 586.5, Kreutzer et al.).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed herein are dsRNAs targeted to GNAQ for inhibiting expression of GNAQ in a cell. Also disclosed are methods of using the GNAQ dsRNA for siRNA inhibition of GNAQ expression and treatment of disease associated with expression and/or over expression of GNAQ, e.g., uveal melanoma.

Accordingly one aspect of the invention is a double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) for inhibiting expression of a G-alpha q subunit (GNAQ) of a heterotrimeric G gene, having a sense strand and an antisense strand having a region of complementarity complementary to an mRNA encoding GNAQ, wherein each strand is at least 15 nucleotides in length. In one embodiment the dsRNA is AD-20057, e.g., sense strand is SEQ ID NO:1579 and the antisense strand is SEQ ID NO:1580. In another embodiment, the antisense strand is complementary to at least 15 contiguous nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1421 or is complementary to at least the first 11 nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1421. The sense strand can include 15 or more contiguous nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1421 or SEQ ID NO:1579 and/or the antisense strand can include 15 or more contiguous nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1422 or SEQ ID NO:1580. In some embodiments the sense strand nucleotide sequence includes SEQ ID NO:1421 and the antisense strand nucleotide sequence includes SEQ ID NO:1422.

In some embodiments the dsRNA of the invention results in the following: administration of 0.1 nM of the dsRNA to a A375 cell results in about 66% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of 1 nM of the dsRNA to a A375 cell results in about 61% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of 1 nM of the dsRNA to a A579 cell results in about 82% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of 10 nM of the dsRNA to a OMM1.3 cell results in about 42% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of the dsRNA to a UMEL202 cell results in about 81% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay.

In another embodiment, the dsRNA is AD-20051 and the sense strand is SEQ ID NO:1565 and the antisense strand is SEQ ID NO:1566. The dsRNA can be complementary to at least the first 11 nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1407 and/or complementary to at least 15 contiguous nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1407. In some embodiments the sense strand includes 15 or more contiguous nucleotides of SEQ ID NO: 1407 or SEQ ID NO:1565 and/or the antisense strand includes 15 or more contiguous nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1408 or SEQ ID NO:1566. The sense strand nucleotide sequence can include SEQ ID NO:1407 and the antisense strand nucleotide sequence can include SEQ ID NO:1408.

In some embodiments the dsRNA of the invention results in the following: administration of 0.1 nM of the dsRNA to a A375 cell results in about 49% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of 1 nM of the dsRNA to a A375 cell results in about 55% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of 1 nM of the dsRNA to a A579 cell results in about 83% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of 10 nM of the dsRNA to a OMM1.3 cell results in about 42% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay.

In other embodiments the dsRNA is AD-20052 or AD-20069.

The antisense strand of the dsRNA is partially or completely complementary to an mRNA encoding a GNAQ, e.g., to a human GNAQ mRNA (e.g., NM_(—)002072) or to a rat GNAQ mRNA (e.g., NM_(—)031036). The region complementary is at least 15 nucleotides in length, e.g., between 19 and 21 nucleotides in length, e.g., 19 nucleotides in length. The region of complementarity can include at least 15 contiguous nucleotides of one of the antisense sequences listed in Tables 2a, 3a, or 4a. In other embodiments, the region of complementarity is one of the antisense sequences listed in Tables 2a, 3a, or 4a.

Additional exemplary dsRNA are provided in the tables herein. In some embodiments, the dsRNA of the invention includes a sense strand and antisense strand are selected from Tables 2b, 3b, 4b or Tables 2c, 3c, or 4c or Tables 2d, 3d, or 4d.

In one aspect, each strand of the dsRNA is no more than 30 nucleotides in length. At least one strand can include a 3′ overhang of at least 1 nucleotide, e.g., 2 nucleotides, e.g., dTdT.

In some embodiments, the dsRNA is modified. For example, the dsRNA can include a modification that causes the dsRNA to have increased stability in a biological sample. In one embodiment, the dsRNA includes at least one modified nucleotide, e.g., a 2′-O-methyl modified nucleotide, a nucleotide comprising a 5′-phosphorothioate group, or a terminal nucleotide linked to a cholesteryl derivative or dodecanoic acid bisdecylamide group. In other embodiments the modified nucleotide is a 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro modified nucleotide, a 2′-deoxy-modified nucleotide, a locked nucleotide, an abasic nucleotide, 2′-amino-modified nucleotide, 2′-alkyl-modified nucleotide, morpholino nucleotide, a phosphoramidate, or a non-natural base comprising nucleotide. The dsRNA of the invention can include at least one 2′-O-methyl modified nucleotide and at least one 2′-deoxythymidine-3′-phosphate nucleotide comprising a 5′-phosphorothioate group.

Any of the dsRNA of the invention can be modified according to a set of rules, e.g., the sense strand includes all 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines and the antisense strand comprises 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines when the pyrimidine is adjacent to A and each strand comprises dTdT at the 3′ end or the sense strand comprises all 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines and the antisense strand comprises 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines when the pyrimidine is adjacent to A and each strand comprises dTsdT at the 3′ end or the sense strand comprises all 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines and the antisense strand comprises 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines when a) the pyrimidine is adjacent to A or b) the pyrimidine is a uracil adjacent to a U or a G, and each strand comprises dTsdT at the 3′ end.

In some embodiments the dsRNA include a ligand. The ligand can be conjugated to the 3′-end of the sense strand of the dsRNA.

Another aspect of the invention is a composition for inhibiting expression of a GNAQ gene including a dsRNA targeting GNAQ and a pharmaceutical formulation. In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical formulation is a lipid formulation. Exemplary formulations are described herein and include, for example, a LNP formulation, a LNP01 formulation, a XTC-SNALP formulation, a SNALP formulation, or a LNP11 formulation.

Also included herein is an isolated cell containing a dsRNA of the invention, a vector including the nucleotide sequence that encodes at least one strand of the dsRNA of the invention, and a cell including said vector.

A dsRNA of the invention, upon contact with a cell expressing said GNAQ, inhibits expression of said GNAQ gene by at least 40% compared to a cell not so contacted. In some embodiments, a dsRNA of the invention has a pM IC50, e.g., an IC50 of less than 10 pM.

Another aspect of the invention is method of inhibiting GNAQ expression in a cell, the method including introducing into the cell any of the dsRNA of the invention and maintaining the cell for a time sufficient to obtain degradation of the mRNA transcript of a GNAQ gene, thereby inhibiting expression of the GNAQ gene in the cell. In some embodiments, expression is inhibited by at least 20%, 40%, 60%, or at least 80%. Also included is a method of treating a disorder mediated by GNAQ expression by administering to a human in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of any of the dsRNA of the invention. Examples of said disorders include uveal melanoma, cutaneous melanoma, Blue nevi, Nevi of Ota, a small lung tumor, or a neuroendocrine tumors. The method of treatment can include administering an addition composition, e.g., a second dsRNA.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a graph showing IFN-alpha cytokine induction in human PBMCs following transfection with a set of GNAQ targeted dsRNA.

FIG. 2 shows TNF-alpha cytokine induction in human PBMCs following transfection with a set of GNAQ targeted dsRNA.

FIG. 3 shows cell viability of OMM1.3 and MEL285 cells following transfection with 1 nM of dsRNAs. The Y-axis is viability normalized to control AD-1955.

FIG. 4 shows cell viability of MEL202 and MEL285 cells following transfection with 1 nM of dsRNAs. The Y-axis is viability normalized to control AD-1955.

FIG. 5 shows cell viability of OMM1.3 and MEL285 cells following transfection with 0.01 nM of dsRNAs. The Y-axis is viability normalized to control AD-1955.

FIG. 6 shows cell viability of MEL202 and MEL285 cells following transfection with 0.01 nM of dsRNAs. The Y-axis is viability normalized to control AD-1955.

FIG. 7 shows day 7 cell viability of OMM1.3, MEL202, and MEL285 cells following transfection with AD-20057 and AD-20051 dsRNAs

FIG. 8 shows day 7 cell viability of OMM1.3, MEL202, and MEL285 cells following transfection with AD-20069 and AD-20093 dsRNAs.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides dsRNAs and methods of using the dsRNAs for inhibiting the expression of a G-alpha q subunit (GNAQ) of a heterotrimeric G gene in a cell or a mammal where the dsRNA targets a GNAQ gene. The invention also provides compositions and methods for treating pathological conditions and diseases, such as uveal melanoma in a mammal caused by the over-expression of a GNAQ gene. A dsRNA directs the sequence-specific degradation of mRNA through a process known as RNA interference (RNAi).

The dsRNAs of the compositions featured herein include an antisense strand having a region which is less than 30 nucleotides in length, generally 19-24 nucleotides in length, and is complementary to at least part of an mRNA transcript of a GNAQ gene. The use of these dsRNAs enables the targeted degradation of mRNAs of genes that are implicated in pathologies associated with GNAQ expression in mammals. Very low dosages of GNAQ dsRNAs in particular can specifically and efficiently mediate RNAi, resulting in significant inhibition of expression of a GNAQ gene. Using cell-based assays, the present inventors demonstrate that dsRNAs targeting GNAQ can specifically and efficiently mediate RNAi, resulting in significant inhibition of expression of a GNAQ gene. Thus, methods and compositions including these dsRNAs are useful for treating pathological processes that can be mediated by down regulating GNAQ over-expression, such as, e.g., treatment of uveal melanoma.

The following detailed description discloses how to make and use the compositions containing dsRNAs to inhibit the expression of a GNAQ gene, as well as compositions (e.g., pharmaceutical compositions) and methods for treating diseases and disorders caused by the expression of this gene.

Accordingly, in some aspects, pharmaceutical compositions containing a GNAQ dsRNA and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, methods of using the compositions to inhibit expression of a GNAQ gene, and methods of using the pharmaceutical compositions to treat diseases caused by expression of a GNAQ gene are featured in the invention.

DEFINITIONS

For convenience, the meaning of certain terms and phrases used in the specification, examples, and appended claims, are provided below. If there is an apparent discrepancy between the usage of a term in other parts of this specification and its definition provided in this section, the definition in this section shall prevail.

“G,” “C,” “A” and “U” each generally stand for a nucleotide that contains guanine, cytosine, adenine, and uracil as a base, respectively. “T” and “dT” are used interchangeably herein and refer to a deoxyribonucleotide wherein the nucleobase is thymine, e.g., deoxyribothymine. However, it will be understood that the term “ribonucleotide” or “nucleotide” or “deoxyribonucleotide” can also refer to a modified nucleotide, as further detailed below, or a surrogate replacement moiety. The skilled person is well aware that guanine, cytosine, adenine, and uracil may be replaced by other moieties without substantially altering the base pairing properties of an oligonucleotide comprising a nucleotide bearing such replacement moiety. For example, without limitation, a nucleotide comprising inosine as its base may base pair with nucleotides containing adenine, cytosine, or uracil. Hence, nucleotides containing uracil, guanine, or adenine may be replaced in the nucleotide sequences of the invention by a nucleotide containing, for example, inosine. Sequences comprising such replacement moieties are embodiments of the invention.

As used herein, “GNAQ” refers to a G-alpha q subunit (GNAQ) of a heterotrimeric G gene. GNAQ is also known as guanine nucleotide binding protein (G protein), q polypeptide and G-ALPHA-q, GAQ. The sequence of a human GNAQ mRNA transcript can be found at NM_(—)002072.2. The sequence of rat GNAQ mRNA can be found at NM_(—)031036.

A used herein “target” or “target gene” refers to a GNAQ gene.

As used herein, “target sequence” refers to a contiguous portion of the nucleotide sequence of an mRNA molecule formed during the transcription of a GNAQ gene, including mRNA that is a product of RNA processing of a primary transcription product.

As used herein, the term “strand comprising a sequence” refers to an oligonucleotide comprising a chain of nucleotides that is described by the sequence referred to using the standard nucleotide nomenclature.

As used herein, and unless otherwise indicated, the term “complementary,” when used to describe a first nucleotide sequence in relation to a second nucleotide sequence, refers to the ability of an oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising the first nucleotide sequence to hybridize and form a duplex structure under certain conditions with an oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising the second nucleotide sequence, as will be understood by the skilled person. Such conditions can, for example, be stringent conditions, where stringent conditions may include: 400 mM NaCl, 40 mM PIPES pH 6.4, 1 mM EDTA, 50° C. or 70° C. for 12-16 hours followed by washing. Other conditions, such as physiologically relevant conditions as may be encountered inside an organism, can apply. The skilled person will be able to determine the set of conditions most appropriate for a test of complementarity of two sequences in accordance with the ultimate application of the hybridized nucleotides.

This includes base-pairing of the oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising the first nucleotide sequence to the oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising the second nucleotide sequence over the entire length of the first and second nucleotide sequence. Such sequences can be referred to as “fully complementary” with respect to each other herein. However, where a first sequence is referred to as “substantially complementary” with respect to a second sequence herein, the two sequences can be fully complementary, or they may form one or more, but generally not more than 4, 3 or 2 mismatched base pairs upon hybridization, while retaining the ability to hybridize under the conditions most relevant to their ultimate application. However, where two oligonucleotides are designed to form, upon hybridization, one or more single stranded overhangs, such overhangs shall not be regarded as mismatches with regard to the determination of complementarity. For example, a dsRNA comprising one oligonucleotide 21 nucleotides in length and another oligonucleotide 23 nucleotides in length, wherein the longer oligonucleotide comprises a sequence of 21 nucleotides that is fully complementary to the shorter oligonucleotide, may yet be referred to as “fully complementary” for the purposes described herein.

“Complementary” sequences, as used herein, may also include, or be formed entirely from, non-Watson-Crick base pairs and/or base pairs formed from non-natural and modified nucleotides, in as far as the above requirements with respect to their ability to hybridize are fulfilled. Such non-Watson-Crick base pairs includes, but not limited to, G:U Wobble or Hoogstein base pairing.

The terms “complementary,” “fully complementary” and “substantially complementary” herein may be used with respect to the base matching between the sense strand and the antisense strand of a dsRNA, or between the antisense strand of a dsRNA and a target sequence, as will be understood from the context of their use.

As used herein, a polynucleotide that is “substantially complementary to at least part of” a messenger RNA (mRNA) refers to a polynucleotide that is substantially complementary to a contiguous portion of the mRNA of interest (e.g., a target gene, e.g., an mRNA encoding GNAQ) including a 5′ UTR, an open reading frame (ORF), or a 3′ UTR. For example, a polynucleotide is complementary to at least a part of a GNAQ mRNA if the sequence is substantially complementary to a non-interrupted portion of an mRNA encoding GNAQ.

The term “double-stranded RNA” or “dsRNA,” as used herein, refers to a complex of ribonucleic acid molecules, having a duplex structure comprising two anti-parallel and substantially complementary, as defined above, nucleic acid strands. In general, the majority of nucleotides of each strand are ribonucleotides, but as described in detail herein, each or both strands can also include at least one non-ribonucleotide, e.g., a deoxyribonucleotide and/or a modified nucleotide. In addition, as used in this specification, “dsRNA” may include chemical modifications to ribonucleotides, including substantial modifications at multiple nucleotides and including all types of modifications disclosed herein or known in the art. Any such modifications, as used in an siRNA type molecule, are encompassed by “dsRNA” for the purposes of this specification and claims

The two strands forming the duplex structure may be different portions of one larger RNA molecule, or they may be separate RNA molecules. Where the two strands are part of one larger molecule, and therefore are connected by an uninterrupted chain of nucleotides between the 3′-end of one strand and the 5′-end of the respective other strand forming the duplex structure, the connecting RNA chain is referred to as a “hairpin loop.” Where the two strands are connected covalently by means other than an uninterrupted chain of nucleotides between the 3′-end of one strand and the 5′-end of the respective other strand forming the duplex structure, the connecting structure is referred to as a “linker.” The RNA strands may have the same or a different number of nucleotides. The maximum number of base pairs is the number of nucleotides in the shortest strand of the dsRNA minus any overhangs that are present in the duplex. In addition to the duplex structure, a dsRNA may comprise one or more nucleotide overhangs. The term “siRNA” is also used herein to refer to a dsRNA as described above.

As used herein, a “nucleotide overhang” refers to the unpaired nucleotide or nucleotides that protrude from the duplex structure of a dsRNA when a 3′-end of one strand of the dsRNA extends beyond the 5′-end of the other strand, or vice versa. “Blunt” or “blunt end” means that there are no unpaired nucleotides at that end of the dsRNA, i.e., no nucleotide overhang. A “blunt ended” dsRNA is a dsRNA that is double-stranded over its entire length, i.e., no nucleotide overhang at either end of the molecule.

The term “antisense strand” refers to the strand of a dsRNA which includes a region that is substantially complementary to a target sequence. As used herein, the term “region of complementarity” refers to the region on the antisense strand that is substantially complementary to a sequence, for example a target sequence, as defined herein. Where the region of complementarity is not fully complementary to the target sequence, the mismatches are most tolerated in the terminal regions and, if present, are generally in a terminal region or regions, e.g., within 6, 5, 4, 3, or 2 nucleotides of the 5′ and/or 3′ terminus.

The term “sense strand,” as used herein, refers to the strand of a dsRNA that includes a region that is substantially complementary to a region of the antisense strand.

As used herein, the term “SNALP” refers to a stable nucleic acid-lipid particle. A SNALP represents a vesicle of lipids coating a reduced aqueous interior comprising a nucleic acid such as an iRNA agent or a plasmid from which an iRNA agent is transcribed. SNALP are described, e.g., in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 20060240093, 20070135372, and U.S. Ser. No. 61/045,228 filed on Apr. 15, 2008. These applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

“Introducing into a cell,” when referring to a dsRNA, means facilitating uptake or absorption into the cell, as is understood by those skilled in the art. Absorption or uptake of dsRNA can occur through unaided diffusive or active cellular processes, or by auxiliary agents or devices. The meaning of this term is not limited to cells in vitro; a dsRNA may also be “introduced into a cell,” wherein the cell is part of a living organism. In such instance, introduction into the cell will include the delivery to the organism. For example, for in vivo delivery, dsRNA can be injected into a tissue site or administered systemically. In vitro introduction into a cell includes methods known in the art such as electroporation and lipofection.

The terms “silence,” “inhibit the expression of,” “down-regulate the expression of,” “suppress the expression of” and the like, in as far as they refer to a target gene, herein refer to the at least partial suppression of the expression of a GNAQ gene, as manifested by a reduction of the amount of mRNA which may be isolated or detected from a first cell or group of cells in which a GNAQ gene is transcribed and which has or have been treated such that the expression of a GNAQ gene is inhibited, as compared to a second cell or group of cells substantially identical to the first cell or group of cells but which has or have not been so treated (control cells). The degree of inhibition is usually expressed in terms of

${\frac{{\left( {{mRNA}\mspace{20mu} {in}\mspace{14mu} {control}\mspace{14mu} {cells}} \right) - \left( {{mRNA}\mspace{20mu} {in}\mspace{14mu} {treated}\mspace{14mu} {cells}} \right)}\mspace{11mu}}{\left( {{mRNA}\mspace{14mu} {in}\mspace{14mu} {control}\mspace{14mu} {cells}} \right)} \cdot 100}\%$

Alternatively, the degree of inhibition may be given in terms of a reduction of a parameter that is functionally linked to GNAQ gene transcription, e.g., the amount of protein encoded by a GNAQ gene which is secreted by a cell, or the number of cells displaying a certain phenotype, e.g., apoptosis. In principle, GNAQ gene silencing may be determined in any cell expressing the target, either constitutively or by genomic engineering, and by any appropriate assay. However, when a reference is needed in order to determine whether a given dsRNA inhibits the expression of a GNAQ gene by a certain degree and therefore is encompassed by the instant invention, the assays provided in the Examples below shall serve as such reference.

For example, in certain instances, expression of a GNAQ gene is suppressed by at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50% by administration of the double-stranded oligonucleotide featured in the invention. In some embodiments, a GNAQ gene is suppressed by at least about 60%, 70%, or 80% by administration of the double-stranded oligonucleotide featured in the invention. In some embodiments, a GNAQ gene is suppressed by at least about 85%, 90%, or 95% by administration of the double-stranded oligonucleotide featured in the invention.

As used herein in the context of GNAQ expression, the terms “treat,” “treatment,” and the like, refer to relief from or alleviation of pathological processes mediated by GNAQ expression. In the context of the present invention insofar as it relates to any of the other conditions recited herein below (other than pathological processes mediated by GNAQ expression), the terms “treat,” “treatment,” and the like mean to relieve or alleviate at least one symptom associated with such condition, or to slow or reverse the progression of such condition, such as tumor reduction in uveal melanoma.

As used herein, the phrases “therapeutically effective amount” and “prophylactically effective amount” refer to an amount that provides a therapeutic benefit in the treatment, prevention, or management of pathological processes mediated by GNAQ expression or an overt symptom of pathological processes mediated by GNAQ expression. The specific amount that is therapeutically effective can be readily determined by an ordinary medical practitioner, and may vary depending on factors known in the art, such as, for example, the type of pathological processes mediated by GNAQ expression, the patient's history and age, the stage of pathological processes mediated by GNAQ expression, and the administration of other anti-pathological processes mediated by GNAQ expression agents.

As used herein, a “pharmaceutical composition” comprises a pharmacologically effective amount of a dsRNA and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. As used herein, “pharmacologically effective amount,” “therapeutically effective amount” or simply “effective amount” refers to that amount of an RNA effective to produce the intended pharmacological, therapeutic or preventive result. For example, if a given clinical treatment is considered effective when there is at least a 25% reduction in a measurable parameter associated with a disease or disorder, a therapeutically effective amount of a drug for the treatment of that disease or disorder is the amount necessary to effect at least a 25% reduction in that parameter.

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” refers to a carrier for administration of a therapeutic agent. Such carriers include, but are not limited to, saline, buffered saline, dextrose, water, glycerol, ethanol, and combinations thereof. The term specifically excludes cell culture medium. For drugs administered orally, pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include, but are not limited to pharmaceutically acceptable excipients such as inert diluents, disintegrating agents, binding agents, lubricating agents, sweetening agents, flavoring agents, coloring agents and preservatives. Suitable inert diluents include sodium and calcium carbonate, sodium and calcium phosphate, and lactose, while corn starch and alginic acid are suitable disintegrating agents. Binding agents may include starch and gelatin, while the lubricating agent, if present, will generally be magnesium stearate, stearic acid or talc. If desired, the tablets may be coated with a material such as glyceryl monostearate or glyceryl distearate, to delay absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.

As used herein, a “transformed cell” is a cell into which a vector has been introduced from which a dsRNA molecule may be expressed.

Double-Stranded Ribonucleic Acid (dsRNA)

As described in more detail herein, the invention provides double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) molecules for inhibiting the expression of a GNAQ gene in a cell or mammal, where the dsRNA includes a sense strand having a first sequence and an antisense strand comprising a second sequence complementary to mRNA encoding GNAQ, wherein said first sequence is complementary to said second sequence at a region of complementarity and wherein each strand is 15 to 30 base pairs in length. In some embodiments, the dsRNA of the invention inhibits the expression of said GNAQ gene by at least 40% as assayed by, for example, a PCR or branched DNA (bDNA)-based method, or by a protein-based method, such as by Western blot. Expression of a GNAQ gene can be reduced by at least 30% when measured by an assay as described in the Examples below. For example, expression of a GNAQ gene in cell culture, such as in HepB3 cells, can be assayed by measuring GNAQ mRNA levels, such as by bDNA or TaqMan assay, or by measuring protein levels, such as by ELISA assay.

The dsRNA can be synthesized by standard methods known in the art as further discussed below, e.g., by use of an automated DNA synthesizer, such as are commercially available from, for example, Biosearch, Applied Biosystems, Inc. The dsRNA includes two RNA strands that are sufficiently complementary to hybridize to form a duplex structure.

One strand of the dsRNA (the antisense strand) includes a region of complementarity that is complementary, to a target sequence, derived from the sequence of an mRNA formed during the expression of a target gene, the other strand (the sense strand) includes a region that is complementary to the antisense strand, such that the two strands hybridize and form a duplex structure when combined under suitable conditions. The region of complementarity is generally at least 15 nucleotides in length, or between 19 and 21 nucleotides in length, or 19, 20, or 21 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments the region of complementarity includes at least 15 contiguous nucleotides of one of the antisense sequences listed in Tables 2a, 3a, or 4a. In other embodiments the region of complementarity includes one of the antisense sequences listed in Tables 2a, 3a, or 4a.

Generally, the duplex structure is between 15 and 30, or between 25 and 30, or between 18 and 25, or between 19 and 24, or between 19 and 21, or 19, 20, or 21 base pairs in length. In one embodiment the duplex is 19 base pairs in length. In another embodiment the duplex is 21 base pairs in length. When two different dsRNAs are used in combination, the duplex lengths can be identical or can differ.

Each strand of the dsRNA of invention is generally between 15 and 30, or between 18 and 25, or 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, or 25 nucleotides in length. In other embodiments, each is strand is 25-30 nucleotides in length. Each strand of the duplex can be the same length or of different lengths. When two different siRNAs are used in combination, the lengths of each strand of each siRNA can be identical or can differ.

The dsRNA of the invention can include one or more single-stranded overhang(s) of one or more nucleotides. In one embodiment, at least one end of the dsRNA has a single-stranded nucleotide overhang of 1 to 4, or 1, 2, 3, or 4 nucleotides. In another embodiment, the overhang include dTdT. In another embodiment, the antisense strand of the dsRNA has 1-10 nucleotides overhangs each at the 3′ end and the 5′ end over the sense strand. In further embodiments, the sense strand of the dsRNA has 1-10 nucleotides overhangs each at the 3′ end and the 5′ end over the antisense strand.

A dsRNAs having at least one nucleotide overhang can have unexpectedly superior inhibitory properties than the blunt-ended counterpart. In some embodiments the presence of only one nucleotide overhang strengthens the interference activity of the dsRNA, without affecting its overall stability. A dsRNA having only one overhang has proven particularly stable and effective in vivo, as well as in a variety of cells, cell culture mediums, blood, and serum. Generally, the single-stranded overhang is located at the 3′-terminal end of the antisense strand or, alternatively, at the 3′-terminal end of the sense strand. The dsRNA can also have a blunt end, generally located at the 5′-end of the antisense strand. Such dsRNAs can have improved stability and inhibitory activity, thus allowing administration at low dosages, i.e., less than 5 mg/kg body weight of the recipient per day. Generally, the antisense strand of the dsRNA has a nucleotide overhang at the 3′-end, and the 5′-end is blunt. In another embodiment, one or more of the nucleotides in the overhang is replaced with a nucleoside thiophosphate.

In one embodiment, a GNAQ gene is a human GNAQ gene, e.g., the sequence identified by GenBank accession number NM_(—)002072.2.

In specific embodiments, the sense strand of the dsRNA is one of the a sense sequences from Tables 2-4, and the antisense strand is one of the antisense sequences of Tables 2-4. Alternative antisense agents that target elsewhere in the target sequence provided in Tables 2-4 can readily be determined using the target sequence and the flanking GNAQ sequence.

The skilled person is well aware that dsRNAs having a duplex structure of between 20 and 23, but specifically 21, base pairs have been hailed as particularly effective in inducing RNA interference (Elbashir et al., EMBO 2001, 20:6877-6888). However, others have found that shorter or longer dsRNAs can be effective as well. In the embodiments described above, by virtue of the nature of the oligonucleotide sequences provided in Tables 2-4, the dsRNAs featured in the invention can include at least one strand of a length described therein. It can be reasonably expected that shorter dsRNAs having one of the sequences of Tables 2-4 minus only a few nucleotides on one or both ends may be similarly effective as compared to the dsRNAs described above. Hence, dsRNAs having a partial sequence of at least 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, or 22, or more contiguous nucleotides from one of the sequences of Tables 2-4, and differing in their ability to inhibit the expression of a GNAQ gene in an assay as described herein below by not more than 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30% inhibition from a dsRNA comprising the full sequence, are contemplated by the invention. Further, dsRNAs that cleave within a desired GNAQ target sequence can readily be made using the corresponding GNAQ antisense sequence and a complementary sense sequence.

In addition, the dsRNAs provided in Tables 2-4 identify a site in a GNAQ that is susceptible to RNAi based cleavage. As such, the present invention further features dsRNAs that target within the sequence targeted by one of the agents of the present invention. As used herein, a second dsRNA is said to target within the sequence of a first dsRNA if the second dsRNA cleaves the message anywhere within the mRNA that is complementary to the antisense strand of the first dsRNA. Such a second dsRNA will generally consist of at least 15 contiguous nucleotides from one of the sequences provided in Tables 2-4 coupled to additional nucleotide sequences taken from the region contiguous to the selected sequence in a GNAQ gene.

Additional dsRNA of the invention include those that cleave a target mRNA at the same location as a dsRNA described in any of the tables. In general, a RISC complex will cleave a target mRNA between the nucleotides complementary to nucleotides 10 and 11 of the antisense strand of a dsRNA, e.g., siRNA, of the invention. Cleavage e sites can be assayed using, e.g., a 5′ RACE assay.

For example, the duplex AD-20057 includes the sense and antisense strands below. Treatment of a cell with this duplex results in cleavage of human GNAQ mRNA at the nucleotides complementary to nucleotides 10 and 11 of the antisense strand, e.g., nucleotides 1211 and 1212. Therefore, also included in the invention are those dsRNA that cleave at that location.

The dsRNA featured in the invention can contain one or more mismatches to the target sequence. In one embodiment, the dsRNA featured in the invention contains no more than 3 mismatches. If the antisense strand of the dsRNA contains mismatches to a target sequence, it is preferable that the area of mismatch not be located in the center of the region of complementarity. If the antisense strand of the dsRNA contains mismatches to the target sequence, it is preferable that the mismatch be restricted to 5 nucleotides from either end, for example 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1 nucleotide from either the 5′ or 3′ end of the region of complementarity. For example, for a 23 nucleotide dsRNA strand which is complementary to a region of a target gene, the dsRNA generally does not contain any mismatch within the central 13 nucleotides. The methods described within the invention can be used to determine whether a dsRNA containing a mismatch to a target sequence is effective in inhibiting the expression of a target gene. Consideration of the efficacy of dsRNAs with mismatches in inhibiting expression of a target gene is important, especially if the particular region of complementarity in a target gene is known to have polymorphic sequence variation within the population.

Modifications

In yet another embodiment, the dsRNA is chemically modified to enhance stability. The nucleic acids featured in the invention may be synthesized and/or modified by methods well established in the art, such as those described in “Current protocols in nucleic acid chemistry,” Beaucage, S. L. et al. (Edrs.), John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, N.Y., USA, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Specific examples of dsRNA compounds useful in this invention include dsRNAs containing modified backbones or no natural internucleoside linkages. As defined in this specification, dsRNAs having modified backbones include those that retain a phosphorus atom in the backbone and those that do not have a phosphorus atom in the backbone. For the purposes of this specification, and as sometimes referenced in the art, modified dsRNAs that do not have a phosphorus atom in their internucleoside backbone can also be considered to be oligonucleosides.

Modified dsRNA backbones include, for example, phosphorothioates, chiral phosphorothioates, phosphorodithioates, phosphotriesters, aminoalkylphosphotriesters, methyl and other alkyl phosphonates including 3′-alkylene phosphonates and chiral phosphonates, phosphinates, phosphoramidates including 3′-amino phosphoramidate and aminoalkylphosphoramidates, thionophosphoramidates, thionoalkylphosphonates, thionoalkylphosphotriesters, and boranophosphates having normal 3′-5′ linkages, 2′-5′ linked analogs of these, and those) having inverted polarity wherein the adjacent pairs of nucleoside units are linked 3′-5′ to 5′-3′ or 2′-5′ to 5′-2′. Various salts, mixed salts and free acid forms are also included.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of the above phosphorus-containing linkages include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,687,808; 4,469,863; 4,476,301; 5,023,243; 5,177,195; 5,188,897; 5,264,423; 5,276,019; 5,278,302; 5,286,717; 5,321,131; 5,399,676; 5,405,939; 5,453,496; 5,455,233; 5,466,677; 5,476,925; 5,519,126; 5,536,821; 5,541,316; 5,550,111; 5,563,253; 5,571,799; 5,587,361; and 5,625,050, each of which is herein incorporated by reference

Modified dsRNA backbones that do not include a phosphorus atom therein have backbones that are formed by short chain alkyl or cycloalkyl internucleoside linkages, mixed heteroatoms and alkyl or cycloalkyl internucleoside linkages, or ore or more short chain heteroatomic or heterocyclic internucleoside linkages. These include those having morpholino linkages (formed in part from the sugar portion of a nucleoside); siloxane backbones; sulfide, sulfoxide and sulfone backbones; formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones; methylene formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones; alkene containing backbones; sulfamate backbones; methyleneimino and methylenehydrazino backbones; sulfonate and sulfonamide backbones; amide backbones; and others having mixed N, O, S and CH2 component parts.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of the above oligonucleosides include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,034,506; 5,166,315; 5,185,444; 5,214,134; 5,216,141; 5,235,033; 5,64,562; 5,264,564; 5,405,938; 5,434,257; 5,466,677; 5,470,967; 5,489,677; 5,541,307; 5,561,225; 5,596,086; 5,602,240; 5,608,046; 5,610,289; 5,618,704; 5,623,070; 5,663,312; 5,633,360; 5,677,437; and, 5,677,439, each of which is herein incorporated by reference.

In other suitable dsRNA mimetics, both the sugar and the internucleoside linkage, i.e., the backbone, of the nucleotide units are replaced with novel groups. The base units are maintained for hybridization with an appropriate nucleic acid target compound. One such oligomeric compound, a dsRNA mimetic that has been shown to have excellent hybridization properties, is referred to as a peptide nucleic acid (PNA). In PNA compounds, the sugar backbone of a dsRNA is replaced with an amide containing backbone, in particular an aminoethylglycine backbone. The nucleobases are retained and are bound directly or indirectly to aza nitrogen atoms of the amide portion of the backbone. Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of PNA compounds include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,539,082; 5,714,331; and 5,719,262, each of which is herein incorporated by reference. Further teaching of PNA compounds can be found in Nielsen et al., Science, 1991, 254, 1497-1500. Other embodiments of the invention are dsRNAs with phosphorothioate backbones and oligonucleosides with heteroatom backbones, and in particular —CH2-NH—CH2-, —CH2-N(CH3)-O—CH2-[known as a methylene (methylimino) or MMI backbone], —CH2-O—N(CH3)-CH2-, —CH2-N(CH3)-N(CH3)-CH2- and —N(CH3)-CH2-CH2-[wherein the native phosphodiester backbone is represented as —O—P—O—CH2-] of the above-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,489,677, and the amide backbones of the above-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,602,240. Also preferred are dsRNAs having morpholino backbone structures of the above-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,034,506.

Modified dsRNAs may also contain one or more substituted sugar moieties. Preferred dsRNAs comprise one of the following at the 2′ position: OH; F; O-, S-, or N-alkyl; O-, S-, or N-alkenyl; O-, S- or N-alkynyl; or O-alkyl-O-alkyl, wherein the alkyl, alkenyl and alkynyl may be substituted or unsubstituted C1 to C10 alkyl or C2 to C10 alkenyl and alkynyl. Particularly preferred are O[(CH2)nO]mCH3, O(CH2)nOCH3, O(CH2)nNH2, O(CH2)nCH3, O(CH2)nONH2, and O(CH2)nON[(CH2)nCH3)]2, where n and m are from 1 to about 10. Other preferred dsRNAs comprise one of the following at the 2′ position: C1 to C10 lower alkyl, substituted lower alkyl, alkaryl, aralkyl, O-alkaryl or O-aralkyl, SH, SCH3, OCN, Cl, Br, CN, CF3, OCF3, SOCH3, SO2CH3, ONO2, NO2, N3, NH2, heterocycloalkyl, heterocycloalkaryl, aminoalkylamino, polyalkylamino, substituted silyl, an RNA cleaving group, a reporter group, an intercalator, a group for improving the pharmacokinetic properties of an dsRNA, or a group for improving the pharmacodynamic properties of an dsRNA, and other substituents having similar properties. A preferred modification includes 2′-methoxyethoxy (2′-O—CH2CH2OCH3, also known as 2′-O-(2-methoxyethyl) or 2′-MOE) (Martin et al., Helv. Chim. Acta, 1995, 78, 486-504) i.e., an alkoxy-alkoxy group. A further preferred modification includes 2′-dimethylaminooxyethoxy, i.e., a O(CH2)2ON(CH3)2 group, also known as 2′-DMAOE, as described in examples herein below, and 2′-dimethylaminoethoxyethoxy (also known in the art as 2′-O-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl or 2′-DMAEOE), i.e., 2′-O—CH2-O—CH2-N(CH2)2, also described in examples herein below.

Other preferred modifications include 2′-methoxy (2′-OCH3), 2′-aminopropoxy (2′-OCH₂CH₂CH₂NH₂) and 2′-fluoro (2′-F). Similar modifications may also be made at other positions on the dsRNA, particularly the 3′ position of the sugar on the 3′ terminal nucleotide or in 2′-5′ linked dsRNAs and the 5′ position of 5′ terminal nucleotide. DsRNAs may also have sugar mimetics such as cyclobutyl moieties in place of the pentofuranosyl sugar. Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of such modified sugar structures include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,981,957; 5,118,800; 5,319,080; 5,359,044; 5,393,878; 5,446,137; 5,466,786; 5,514,785; 5,519,134; 5,567,811; 5,576,427; 5,591,722; 5,597,909; 5,610,300; 5,627,053; 5,639,873; 5,646,265; 5,658,873; 5,670,633; and 5,700,920, certain of which are commonly owned with the instant application, and each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

A dsRNA may also include nucleobase (often referred to in the art simply as “base”) modifications or substitutions. As used herein, “unmodified” or “natural” nucleobases include the purine bases adenine (A) and guanine (G), and the pyrimidine bases thymine (T), cytosine (C) and uracil (U). Modified nucleobases include other synthetic and natural nucleobases such as 5-methylcytosine (5-me-C), 5-hydroxymethyl cytosine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, 2-aminoadenine, 6-methyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-propyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-thiouracil, 2-thiothymine and 2-thiocytosine, 5-halouracil and cytosine, 5-propynyl uracil and cytosine, 6-azo uracil, cytosine and thymine, 5-uracil (pseudouracil), 4-thiouracil, 8-halo, 8-amino, 8-thiol, 8-thioalkyl, 8-hydroxyl anal other 8-substituted adenines and guanines, 5-halo, particularly 5-bromo, 5-trifluoromethyl and other 5-substituted uracils and cytosines, 7-methylguanine and 7-methyladenine, 8-azaguanine and 8-azaadenine, 7-deazaguanine and 7-daazaadenine and 3-deazaguanine and 3-deazaadenine. Further nucleobases include those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,687,808, those disclosed in The Concise Encyclopedia Of Polymer Science And Engineering, pages 858-859, Kroschwitz, J. L, ed. John Wiley & Sons, 1990, these disclosed by Englisch et al., Angewandte Chemie, International Edition, 1991, 30, 613, and those disclosed by Sanghvi, Y S., Chapter 15, DsRNA Research and Applications, pages 289-302, Crooke, S. T. and Lebleu, B., Ed., CRC Press, 1993. Certain of these nucleobases are particularly useful for increasing the binding affinity of the oligomeric compounds featured in the invention. These include 5-substituted pyrimidines, 6-azapyrimidines and N-2, N-6 and 0-6 substituted purines, including 2-aminopropyladenine, 5-propynyluracil and 5-propynylcytosine. 5-methylcytosine substitutions have been shown to increase nucleic acid duplex stability by 0.6-1.2° C. (Sanghvi, Y. S., Crooke, S. T. and Lebleu, B., Eds., DsRNA Research and Applications, CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1993, pp. 276-278) and are exemplary base substitutions, even more particularly when combined with 2′-O-methoxyethyl sugar modifications.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of certain of the above noted modified nucleobases as well as other modified nucleobases include, but are not limited to, the above noted U.S. Pat. No. 3,687,808, as well as U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,845,205; 5,130,30; 5,134,066; 5,175,273; 5,367,066; 5,432,272; 5,457,187; 5,459,255; 5,484,908; 5,502,177; 5,525,711; 5,552,540; 5,587,469; 5,594,121, 5,596,091; 5,614,617; and 5,681,941, each of which is herein incorporated by reference, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,750,692, also herein incorporated by reference.

Conjugates

Another modification of the dsRNAs featured in the invention involves chemically linking to the dsRNA one or more moieties or conjugates which enhance the activity, cellular distribution or cellular uptake of the dsRNA. Such moieties include but are not limited to lipid moieties such as a cholesterol moiety (Letsinger et al., Proc. Natl. Acid. Sci. USA, 1989, 86: 6553-6556), cholic acid (Manoharan et al., Biorg. Med. Chem. Let., 1994, 4:1053-1060), a thioether, e.g., beryl-5-tritylthiol (Manoharan et al., Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci., 1992, 660:306-309; Manoharan et al., Biorg. Med. Chem. Let., 1993, 3:2765-2770), a thiocholesterol (Oberhauser et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 1992, 20:533-538), an aliphatic chain, e.g., dodecandiol or undecyl residues (Saison-Behmoaras et al., EMBO J, 1991, 10:1111-1118; Kabanov et al., FEBS Lett., 1990, 259:327-330; Svinarchuk et al., Biochimie, 1993, 75:49-54), a phospholipid, e.g., di-hexadecyl-rac-glycerol or triethyl-ammonium 1,2-di-O-hexadecyl-rac-glycero-3-Hphosphonate (Manoharan et al., Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651-3654; Shea et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 1990, 18:3777-3783), a polyamine or a polyethylene glycol chain (Manoharan et al., Nucleosides & Nucleotides, 1995, 14:969-973), or adamantane acetic acid (Manoharan et al., Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651-3654), a palmityl moiety (Mishra et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta, 1995, 1264:229-237), or an octadecylamine or hexylamino-carbonyloxycholesterol moiety (Crooke et al., J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther., 1996, 277:923-937).

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of such dsRNA conjugates include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,828,979; 4,948,882; 5,218,105; 5,525,465; 5,541,313; 5,545,730; 5,552,538; 5,578,717, 5,580,731; 5,591,584; 5,109,124; 5,118,802; 5,138,045; 5,414,077; 5,486,603; 5,512,439; 5,578,718; 5,608,046; 4,587,044; 4,605,735; 4,667,025; 4,762,779; 4,789,737; 4,824,941; 4,835,263; 4,876,335; 4,904,582; 4,958,013; 5,082,830; 5,112,963; 5,214,136; 5,082,830; 5,112,963; 5,214,136; 5,245,022; 5,254,469; 5,258,506; 5,262,536; 5,272,250; 5,292,873; 5,317,098; 5,371,241, 5,391,723; 5,416,203, 5,451,463; 5,510,475; 5,512,667; 5,514,785; 5,565,552; 5,567,810; 5,574,142; 5,585,481; 5,587,371; 5,595,726; 5,597,696; 5,599,923; 5,599,928 and 5,688,941, each of which is herein incorporated by reference.

It is not necessary for all positions in a given compound to be uniformly modified, and in fact more than one of the aforementioned modifications may be incorporated in a single compound or even at a single nucleoside within a dsRNA. The present invention also includes dsRNA compounds which are chimeric compounds. “Chimeric” dsRNA compounds or “chimeras,” in the context of this invention, are dsRNA compounds, particularly dsRNAs, which contain two or more chemically distinct regions, each made up of at least one monomer unit, i.e., a nucleotide in the case of a dsRNA compound. These dsRNAs typically contain at least one region wherein the dsRNA is modified so as to confer upon the dsRNA increased resistance to nuclease degradation, increased cellular uptake, and/or increased binding affinity for the target nucleic acid. An additional region of the dsRNA may serve as a substrate for enzymes capable of cleaving RNA:DNA or RNA:RNA hybrids. By way of example, RNase H is a cellular endonuclease which cleaves the RNA strand of an RNA:DNA duplex. Activation of RNase H, therefore, results in cleavage of the RNA target, thereby greatly enhancing the efficiency of dsRNA inhibition of gene expression. Consequently, comparable results can often be obtained with shorter dsRNAs when chimeric dsRNAs are used, compared to phosphorothioate deoxydsRNAs hybridizing to the same target region. Cleavage of the RNA target can be routinely detected by gel electrophoresis and, if necessary, associated nucleic acid hybridization techniques known in the art.

In certain instances, the dsRNA may be modified by a non-ligand group. A number of non-ligand molecules have been conjugated to dsRNAs in order to enhance the activity, cellular distribution or cellular uptake of the dsRNA, and procedures for performing such conjugations are available in the scientific literature. Such non-ligand moieties have included lipid moieties, such as cholesterol (Letsinger et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 1989, 86:6553), cholic acid (Manoharan et al., Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett., 1994, 4:1053), a thioether, e.g., hexyl-5-tritylthiol (Manoharan et al., Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci., 1992, 660:306; Manoharan et al., Bioorg. Med. Chem. Let., 1993, 3:2765), a thiocholesterol (Oberhauser et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 1992, 20:533), an aliphatic chain, e.g., dodecandiol or undecyl residues (Saison-Behmoaras et al., EMBO J., 1991, 10:111; Kabanov et al., FEBS Lett., 1990, 259:327; Svinarchuk et al., Biochimie, 1993, 75:49), a phospholipid, e.g., di-hexadecyl-rac-glycerol or triethylammonium 1,2-di-O-hexadecyl-rac-glycero-3-H-phosphonate (Manoharan et al., Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651; Shea et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 1990, 18:3777), a polyamine or a polyethylene glycol chain (Manoharan et al., Nucleosides & Nucleotides, 1995, 14:969), or adamantane acetic acid (Manoharan et al., Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651), a palmityl moiety (Mishra et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta, 1995, 1264:229), or an octadecylamine or hexylamino-carbonyl-oxycholesterol moiety (Crooke et al., J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther., 1996, 277:923). Representative United States patents that teach the preparation of such dsRNA conjugates have been listed above. Typical conjugation protocols involve the synthesis of dsRNAs bearing an aminolinker at one or more positions of the sequence. The amino group is then reacted with the molecule being conjugated using appropriate coupling or activating reagents. The conjugation reaction may be performed either with the dsRNA still bound to the solid support or following cleavage of the dsRNA in solution phase. Purification of the dsRNA conjugate by HPLC typically affords the pure conjugate.

Vector Encoded dsRNAs

In another aspect, dsRNA molecules of the invention are expressed from transcription units inserted into DNA or RNA vectors (see, e.g., Couture, A, et al., TIG. (1996), 12:5-10; Skillern, A., et al., International PCT Publication No. WO 00/22113, Conrad, International PCT Publication No. WO 00/22114, and Conrad, U.S. Pat. No. 6,054,299). These transgenes can be introduced as a linear construct, a circular plasmid, or a viral vector, which can be incorporated and inherited as a transgene integrated into the host genome. The transgene can also be constructed to permit it to be inherited as an extrachromosomal plasmid (Gassmann, et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA (1995) 92:1292).

The individual strands of a dsRNA can be transcribed by promoters on two separate expression vectors and co-transfected into a target cell. Alternatively each individual strand of the dsRNA can be transcribed by promoters both of which are located on the same expression plasmid. In one embodiment, a dsRNA is expressed as an inverted repeat joined by a linker polynucleotide sequence such that the dsRNA has a stem and loop structure.

The recombinant dsRNA expression vectors are generally DNA plasmids or viral vectors. dsRNA expressing viral vectors can be constructed based on, but not limited to, adeno-associated virus (for a review, see Muzyczka, et al., Curr. Topics Micro. Immunol. (1992) 158:97-129)); adenovirus (see, for example, Berkner, et al., BioTechniques (1998) 6:616), Rosenfeld et al. (1991, Science 252:431-434), and Rosenfeld et al. (1992), Cell 68:143-155)); or alphavirus as well as others known in the art. Retroviruses have been used to introduce a variety of genes into many different cell types, including epithelial cells, in vitro and/or in vivo (see, e.g., Eglitis, et al., Science (1985) 230:1395-1398; Danos and Mulligan, Proc. NatI. Acad. Sci. USA (1998) 85:6460-6464; Wilson et al., 1988, Proc. NatI. Acad. Sci. USA 85:3014-3018; Armentano et al., 1990, Proc. NatI. Acad. Sci. USA 87:61416145; Huber et al., 1991, Proc. NatI. Acad. Sci. USA 88:8039-8043; Ferry et al., 1991, Proc. NatI. Acad. Sci. USA 88:8377-8381; Chowdhury et al., 1991, Science 254:1802-1805; van Beusechem. et al., 1992, Proc. Nad. Acad. Sci. USA 89:7640-19; Kay et al., 1992, Human Gene Therapy 3:641-647; Dai et al., 1992, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 89:10892-10895; Hwu et al., 1993, J. Immunol. 150:4104-4115; U.S. Pat. No. 4,868,116; U.S. Pat. No. 4,980,286; PCT Application WO 89/07136; PCT Application WO 89/02468; PCT Application WO 89/05345; and PCT Application WO 92/07573). Recombinant retroviral vectors capable of transducing and expressing genes inserted into the genome of a cell can be produced by transfecting the recombinant retroviral genome into suitable packaging cell lines such as PA317 and Psi-CRIP (Comette et al., 1991, Human Gene Therapy 2:5-10; Cone et al., 1984, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 81:6349). Recombinant adenoviral vectors can be used to infect a wide variety of cells and tissues in susceptible hosts (e.g., rat, hamster, dog, and chimpanzee) (Hsu et al., 1992, J. Infectious Disease, 166:769), and also have the advantage of not requiring mitotically active cells for infection.

Any viral vector capable of accepting the coding sequences for the dsRNA molecule(s) to be expressed can be used, for example vectors derived from adenovirus (AV); adeno-associated virus (AAV); retroviruses (e.g., lentiviruses (LV), Rhabdoviruses, murine leukemia virus); herpes virus, and the like. The tropism of viral vectors can be modified by pseudotyping the vectors with envelope proteins or other surface antigens from other viruses, or by substituting different viral capsid proteins, as appropriate.

For example, lentiviral vectors featured in the invention can be pseudotyped with surface proteins from vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), rabies, Ebola, Mokola, and the like. AAV vectors featured in the invention can be made to target different cells by engineering the vectors to express different capsid protein serotypes. For example, an AAV vector expressing a serotype 2 capsid on a serotype 2 genome is called AAV 2/2. This serotype 2 capsid gene in the AAV 2/2 vector can be replaced by a serotype 5 capsid gene to produce an AAV 2/5 vector. Techniques for constructing AAV vectors which express different capsid protein serotypes are within the skill in the art; see, e.g., Rabinowitz J E et al. (2002), J Virol 76:791-801, the entire disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.

Selection of recombinant viral vectors suitable for use in the invention, methods for inserting nucleic acid sequences for expressing the dsRNA into the vector, and methods of delivering the viral vector to the cells of interest are within the skill in the art. See, for example, Dornburg R (1995), Gene Therap. 2: 301-310; Eglitis M A (1988), Biotechniques 6: 608-614; Miller A D (1990), Hum Gene Therap. 1: 5-14; Anderson W F (1998), Nature 392: 25-30; and Rubinson D A et al., Nat. Genet. 33: 401-406, the entire disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

Viral vectors can be derived from AV and AAV. In one embodiment, the dsRNA featured in the invention is expressed as two separate, complementary single-stranded RNA molecules from a recombinant AAV vector having, for example, either the U6 or H1 RNA promoters, or the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter.

A suitable AV vector for expressing the dsRNA featured in the invention, a method for constructing the recombinant AV vector, and a method for delivering the vector into target cells, are described in Xia H et al. (2002), Nat. Biotech. 20: 1006-1010.

Suitable AAV vectors for expressing the dsRNA featured in the invention, methods for constructing the recombinant AV vector, and methods for delivering the vectors into target cells are described in Samulski R et al. (1987), J. Virol. 61: 3096-3101; Fisher K J et al. (1996), J. Virol, 70: 520-532; Samulski R et al. (1989), J. Virol. 63: 3822-3826; U.S. Pat. No. 5,252,479; U.S. Pat. No. 5,139,941; International Patent Application No. WO 94/13788; and International Patent Application No. WO 93/24641, the entire disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

The promoter driving dsRNA expression in either a DNA plasmid or viral vector featured in the invention may be a eukaryotic RNA polymerase I (e.g., ribosomal RNA promoter), RNA polymerase II (e.g., CMV early promoter or actin promoter or Ul snRNA promoter) or generally RNA polymerase III promoter (e.g., U6 snRNA or 7SK RNA promoter) or a prokaryotic promoter, for example the T7 promoter, provided the expression plasmid also encodes T7 RNA polymerase required for transcription from a T7 promoter. The promoter can also direct transgene expression to the pancreas (see, e.g., the insulin regulatory sequence for pancreas (Bucchini et al., 1986, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 83:2511-2515)).

In addition, expression of the transgene can be precisely regulated, for example, by using an inducible regulatory sequence and expression systems such as a regulatory sequence that is sensitive to certain physiological regulators, e.g., circulating glucose levels, or hormones (Docherty et al., 1994, FASEB J. 8:20-24). Such inducible expression systems, suitable for the control of transgene expression in cells or in mammals include regulation by ecdysone, by estrogen, progesterone, tetracycline, chemical inducers of dimerization, and isopropyl-beta-D1-thiogalactopyranoside (EPTG). A person skilled in the art would be able to choose the appropriate regulatory/promoter sequence based on the intended use of the dsRNA transgene.

Generally, recombinant vectors capable of expressing dsRNA molecules are delivered as described below, and persist in target cells. Alternatively, viral vectors can be used that provide for transient expression of dsRNA molecules. Such vectors can be repeatedly administered as necessary. Once expressed, the dsRNAs bind to target RNA and modulate its function or expression. Delivery of dsRNA expressing vectors can be systemic, such as by intravenous or intramuscular administration, by administration to target cells ex-planted from the patient followed by reintroduction into the patient, or by any other means that allows for introduction into a desired target cell.

dsRNA expression DNA plasmids are typically transfected into target cells as a complex with cationic lipid carriers (e.g., Oligofectamine) or non-cationic lipid-based carriers (e.g., Transit-TKO™). Multiple lipid transfections for dsRNA-mediated knockdowns targeting different regions of a single target gene or multiple target genes over a period of a week or more are also contemplated by the invention. Successful introduction of vectors into host cells can be monitored using various known methods. For example, transient transfection can be signaled with a reporter, such as a fluorescent marker, such as Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP). Stable transfection of cells ex vivo can be ensured using markers that provide the transfected cell with resistance to specific environmental factors (e.g., antibiotics and drugs), such as hygromycin B resistance.

Target gene specific dsRNA molecules can also be inserted into vectors and used as gene therapy vectors for human patients. Gene therapy vectors can be delivered to a subject by, for example, intravenous injection, local administration (see U.S. Pat. No. 5,328,470) or by stereotactic injection (see e.g., Chen et al. (1994) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 91:3054-3057). The pharmaceutical preparation of the gene therapy vector can include the gene therapy vector in an acceptable diluent, or can include a slow release matrix in which the gene delivery vehicle is imbedded. Alternatively, where the complete gene delivery vector can be produced intact from recombinant cells, e.g., retroviral vectors, the pharmaceutical preparation can include one or more cells which produce the gene delivery system.

Pharmaceutical Compositions Containing dsRNA

In one embodiment, the invention provides pharmaceutical compositions containing a dsRNA, as described herein, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The pharmaceutical composition containing the dsRNA is useful for treating a disease or disorder associated with the expression or activity of a GNAQ gene, such as pathological processes mediated by GNAQ expression. Such pharmaceutical compositions are formulated based on the mode of delivery. One example is compositions that are formulated for systemic administration via parenteral delivery, e.g., by intravenous (IV) delivery. Another example is compositions that are formulated for direct delivery into the brain parenchyma, e.g., by infusion into the brain, such as by continuous pump infusion.

The pharmaceutical compositions featured herein are administered in dosages sufficient to inhibit expression of GNAQ genes. In general, a suitable dose of dsRNA will be in the range of 0.01 to 200.0 milligrams siRNA per kilogram body weight of the recipient per day, generally in the range of 1 to 50 mg per kilogram body weight per day. For example, the dsRNA can be administered at 0.0059 mg/kg, 0.01 mg/kg, 0.0295 mg/kg, 0.05 mg/kg, 0.0590 mg/kg, 0.163 mg/kg, 0.2 mg/kg, 0.3 mg/kg, 0.4 mg/kg, 0.5 mg/kg, 0.543 mg/kg, 0.5900 mg/kg, 0.6 mg/kg, 0.7 mg/kg, 0.8 mg/kg, 0.9 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, 1.1 mg/kg, 1.2 mg/kg, 1.3 mg/kg, 1.4 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 1.628 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg, 5.0 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg, or 50 mg/kg per single dose.

In one embodiment, the dosage is between 0.01 and 0.2 mg/kg. For example, the dsRNA can be administered at a dose of 0.01 mg/kg, 0.02 mg/kg, 0.03 mg/kg, 0.04 mg/kg, 0.05 mg/kg, 0.06 mg/kg, 0.07 mg/kg 0.08 mg/kg 0.09 mg/kg, 0.10 mg/kg, 0.11 mg/kg, 0.12 mg/kg, 0.13 mg/kg, 0.14 mg/kg, 0.15 mg/kg, 0.16 mg/kg, 0.17 mg/kg, 0.18 mg/kg, 0.19 mg/kg, or 0.20 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, the dosage is between 0.005 mg/kg and 1.628 mg/kg. For example, the dsRNA can be administered at a dose of 0.0059 mg/kg, 0.0295 mg/kg, 0.0590 mg/kg, 0.163 mg/kg, 0.543 mg/kg, 0.5900 mg/kg, or 1.628 mg/kg.

In one embodiment, the dosage is between 0.2 mg/kg and 1.5 mg/kg. For example, the dsRNA can be administered at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg, 0.3 mg/kg, 0.4 mg/kg, 0.5 mg/kg, 0.6 mg/kg, 0.7 mg/kg, 0.8 mg/kg, 0.9 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, 1.1 mg/kg, 1.2 mg/kg, 1.3 mg/kg, 1.4 mg/kg, or 1.5 mg/kg.

The dsRNA can be administered at a dose of 0.03 mg/kg.

The pharmaceutical composition may be administered once daily, or the dsRNA may be administered as two, three, or more sub-doses at appropriate intervals throughout the day or even using continuous infusion or delivery through a controlled release formulation. In that case, the dsRNA contained in each sub-dose must be correspondingly smaller in order to achieve the total daily dosage. The dosage unit can also be compounded for delivery over several days, e.g., using a conventional sustained release formulation which provides sustained release of the dsRNA over a several day period. Sustained release formulations are well known in the art and are particularly useful for delivery of agents at a particular site, such as could be used with the agents of the present invention. In this embodiment, the dosage unit contains a corresponding multiple of the daily dose.

The effect of a single dose on GNAQ levels is long lasting, such that subsequent doses are administered at not more than 3, 4, or 5 day intervals, or at not more than 1, 2, 3, or 4 week intervals, or at not more than 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 week intervals.

The skilled artisan will appreciate that certain factors may influence the dosage and timing required to effectively treat a subject, including but not limited to the severity of the disease or disorder, previous treatments, the general health and/or age of the subject, and other diseases present. Moreover, treatment of a subject with a therapeutically effective amount of a composition can include a single treatment or a series of treatments. Estimates of effective dosages and in vivo half-lives for the individual dsRNAs encompassed by the invention can be made using conventional methodologies or on the basis of in vivo testing using an appropriate animal model, as described elsewhere herein.

Advances in mouse genetics have generated a number of mouse models for the study of various human diseases, such as pathological processes mediated by GNAQ expression. Such models are used for in vivo testing of dsRNA, as well as for determining a therapeutically effective dose. A suitable mouse model is, for example, a mouse containing a plasmid expressing human GNAQ. Another suitable mouse model is a transgenic mouse carrying a transgene that expresses human GNAQ.

The data obtained from cell culture assays and animal studies can be used in formulating a range of dosage for use in humans. The dosage of compositions featured in the invention lies generally within a range of circulating concentrations that include the ED50 with little or no toxicity. The dosage may vary within this range depending upon the dosage form employed and the route of administration utilized. For any compound used in the methods featured in the invention, the therapeutically effective dose can be estimated initially from cell culture assays. A dose may be formulated in animal models to achieve a circulating plasma concentration range of the compound or, when appropriate, of the polypeptide product of a target sequence (e.g., achieving a decreased concentration of the polypeptide) that includes the IC50 (i.e., the concentration of the test compound which achieves a half-maximal inhibition of symptoms) as determined in cell culture. Such information can be used to more accurately determine useful doses in humans. Levels in plasma may be measured, for example, by high performance liquid chromatography.

The dsRNAs featured in the invention can be administered in combination with other known agents effective in treatment of pathological processes mediated by target gene expression. In any event, the administering physician can adjust the amount and timing of dsRNA administration on the basis of results observed using standard measures of efficacy known in the art or described herein.

Administration

The present invention also includes pharmaceutical compositions and formulations which include the dsRNA compounds featured in the invention. The pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention may be administered in a number of ways depending upon whether local or systemic treatment is desired and upon the area to be treated. Administration may be topical, pulmonary, e.g., by inhalation or insufflation of powders or aerosols, including by nebulizer; intratracheal, intranasal, epidermal and transdermal, oral or parenteral. Parenteral administration includes intravenous, intraarterial, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal or intramuscular injection or infusion; or intracranial, e.g., intraparenchymal, intrathecal or intraventricular, administration.

The dsRNA can be delivered in a manner to target a particular tissue, such as the liver (e.g., the hepatocytes of the liver).

The present invention includes pharmaceutical compositions that can be delivered by injection directly into the brain. The injection can be by stereotactic injection into a particular region of the brain (e.g., the substantia nigra, cortex, hippocampus, striatum, or globus pallidus), or the dsRNA can be delivered into multiple regions of the central nervous system (e.g., into multiple regions of the brain, and/or into the spinal cord). The dsRNA can also be delivered into diffuse regions of the brain (e.g., diffuse delivery to the cortex of the brain).

In one embodiment, a dsRNA targeting GNAQ can be delivered by way of a cannula or other delivery device having one end implanted in a tissue, e.g., the brain, e.g., the substantia nigra, cortex, hippocampus, striatum, corpus callosum or globus pallidus of the brain. The cannula can be connected to a reservoir of the dsRNA composition. The flow or delivery can be mediated by a pump, e.g., an osmotic pump or minipump, such as an Alzet pump (Durect, Cupertino, Calif.). In one embodiment, a pump and reservoir are implanted in an area distant from the tissue, e.g., in the abdomen, and delivery is effected by a conduit leading from the pump or reservoir to the site of release. Infusion of the dsRNA composition into the brain can be over several hours or for several days, e.g., for 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 days or more. Devices for delivery to the brain are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,093,180, and 5,814,014.

Pharmaceutical compositions and formulations for topical administration may include transdermal patches, ointments, lotions, creams, gels, drops, suppositories, sprays, liquids and powders. Conventional pharmaceutical carriers, aqueous, powder or oily bases, thickeners and the like may be necessary or desirable. Coated condoms, gloves and the like may also be useful. Suitable topical formulations include those in which the dsRNAs featured in the invention are in admixture with a topical delivery agent such as lipids, liposomes, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, steroids, chelating agents and surfactants. Suitable lipids and liposomes include neutral (e.g., dioleoylphosphatidyl DOPE ethanolamine, dimyristoylphosphatidyl choline DMPC, distearoylphosphatidyl choline) negative (e.g., dimyristoylphosphatidyl glycerol DMPG) and cationic (e.g., dioleoyltetramethylaminopropyl DOTAP and dioleoylphosphatidyl ethanolamine DOTMA). DsRNAs featured in the invention may be encapsulated within liposomes or may form complexes thereto, in particular to cationic liposomes. Alternatively, dsRNAs may be complexed to lipids, in particular to cationic lipids. Suitable fatty acids and esters include but are not limited to arachidonic acid, oleic acid, eicosanoic acid, lauric acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, dicaprate, tricaprate, monoolein, dilaurin, glyceryl 1-monocaprate, 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, an acylcarnitine, an acylcholine, or a C₁₋₁₀ alkyl ester (e.g., isopropylmyristate IPM), monoglyceride, diglyceride or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Topical formulations are described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,014, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Liposomal Formulations

There are many organized surfactant structures besides microemulsions that have been studied and used for the formulation of drugs. These include monolayers, micelles, bilayers and vesicles. Vesicles, such as liposomes, have attracted great interest because of their specificity and the duration of action they offer from the standpoint of drug delivery. As used in the present invention, the term “liposome” means a vesicle composed of amphiphilic lipids arranged in a spherical bilayer or bilayers.

Liposomes are unilamellar or multilamellar vesicles which have a membrane formed from a lipophilic material and an aqueous interior. The aqueous portion contains the composition to be delivered. Cationic liposomes possess the advantage of being able to fuse to the cell wall. Non-cationic liposomes, although not able to fuse as efficiently with the cell wall, are taken up by macrophages in vivo.

In order to cross intact mammalian skin, lipid vesicles must pass through a series of fine pores, each with a diameter less than 50 nm, under the influence of a suitable transdermal gradient. Therefore, it is desirable to use a liposome which is highly deformable and able to pass through such fine pores.

Further advantages of liposomes include; liposomes obtained from natural phospholipids are biocompatible and biodegradable; liposomes can incorporate a wide range of water and lipid soluble drugs; liposomes can protect encapsulated drugs in their internal compartments from metabolism and degradation (Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245). Important considerations in the preparation of liposome formulations are the lipid surface charge, vesicle size and the aqueous volume of the liposomes.

Liposomes are useful for the transfer and delivery of active ingredients to the site of action. Because the liposomal membrane is structurally similar to biological membranes, when liposomes are applied to a tissue, the liposomes start to merge with the cellular membranes and as the merging of the liposome and cell progresses, the liposomal contents are emptied into the cell where the active agent may act.

Liposomal formulations have been the focus of extensive investigation as the mode of delivery for many drugs. There is growing evidence that for topical administration, liposomes present several advantages over other formulations. Such advantages include reduced side-effects related to high systemic absorption of the administered drug, increased accumulation of the administered drug at the desired target, and the ability to administer a wide variety of drugs, both hydrophilic and hydrophobic, into the skin.

Several reports have detailed the ability of liposomes to deliver agents including high-molecular weight DNA into the skin. Compounds including analgesics, antibodies, hormones and high-molecular weight DNAs have been administered to the skin. The majority of applications resulted in the targeting of the upper epidermis

Liposomes fall into two broad classes. Cationic liposomes are positively charged liposomes which interact with the negatively charged DNA molecules to form a stable complex. The positively charged DNA/liposome complex binds to the negatively charged cell surface and is internalized in an endosome. Due to the acidic pH within the endosome, the liposomes are ruptured, releasing their contents into the cell cytoplasm (Wang et al., Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun., 1987, 147, 980-985).

Liposomes which are pH-sensitive or negatively-charged, entrap DNA rather than complex with it. Since both the DNA and the lipid are similarly charged, repulsion rather than complex formation occurs. Nevertheless, some DNA is entrapped within the aqueous interior of these liposomes. pH-sensitive liposomes have been used to deliver DNA encoding the thymidine kinase gene to cell monolayers in culture. Expression of the exogenous gene was detected in the target cells (Zhou et al., Journal of Controlled Release, 1992, 19, 269-274).

One major type of liposomal composition includes phospholipids other than naturally-derived phosphatidylcholine. Neutral liposome compositions, for example, can be formed from dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine (DMPC) or dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC). Anionic liposome compositions generally are formed from dimyristoyl phosphatidylglycerol, while anionic fusogenic liposomes are formed primarily from dioleoyl phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE). Another type of liposomal composition is formed from phosphatidylcholine (PC) such as, for example, soybean PC, and egg PC. Another type is formed from mixtures of phospholipid and/or phosphatidylcholine and/or cholesterol.

Several studies have assessed the topical delivery of liposomal drug formulations to the skin. Application of liposomes containing interferon to guinea pig skin resulted in a reduction of skin herpes sores while delivery of interferon via other means (e.g., as a solution or as an emulsion) were ineffective (Weiner et al., Journal of Drug Targeting, 1992, 2, 405-410). Further, an additional study tested the efficacy of interferon administered as part of a liposomal formulation to the administration of interferon using an aqueous system, and concluded that the liposomal formulation was superior to aqueous administration (du Plessis et al., Antiviral Research, 1992, 18, 259-265).

Non-ionic liposomal systems have also been examined to determine their utility in the delivery of drugs to the skin, in particular systems comprising non-ionic surfactant and cholesterol. Non-ionic liposomal formulations comprising Novasome™ I (glyceryl dilaurate/cholesterol/polyoxyethylene-10-stearyl ether) and Novasome™ II (glyceryl distearate/cholesterol/polyoxyethylene-10-stearyl ether) were used to deliver cyclosporin-A into the dermis of mouse skin. Results indicated that such non-ionic liposomal systems were effective in facilitating the deposition of cyclosporin-A into different layers of the skin (Hu et al. S.T.P.Pharma. Sci., 1994, 4, 6, 466).

Liposomes also include “sterically stabilized” liposomes, a term which, as used herein, refers to liposomes comprising one or more specialized lipids that, when incorporated into liposomes, result in enhanced circulation lifetimes relative to liposomes lacking such specialized lipids. Examples of sterically stabilized liposomes are those in which part of the vesicle-forming lipid portion of the liposome (A) comprises one or more glycolipids, such as monosialoganglioside G_(M1), or (B) is derivatized with one or more hydrophilic polymers, such as a polyethylene glycol (PEG) moiety. While not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is thought in the art that, at least for sterically stabilized liposomes containing gangliosides, sphingomyelin, or PEG-derivatized lipids, the enhanced circulation half-life of these sterically stabilized liposomes derives from a reduced uptake into cells of the reticuloendothelial system (RES) (Allen et al., FEBS Letters, 1987, 223, 42; Wu et al., Cancer Research, 1993, 53, 3765).

Various liposomes comprising one or more glycolipids are known in the art. Papahadjopoulos et al. (Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci., 1987, 507, 64) reported the ability of monosialoganglioside G_(M1), galactocerebroside sulfate and phosphatidylinositol to improve blood half-lives of liposomes. These findings were expounded upon by Gabizon et al. (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A., 1988, 85, 6949). U.S. Pat. No. 4,837,028 and WO 88/04924, both to Allen et al., disclose liposomes comprising (1) sphingomyelin and (2) the ganglioside G_(M1) or a galactocerebroside sulfate ester. U.S. Pat. No. 5,543,152 (Webb et al.) discloses liposomes comprising sphingomyelin. Liposomes comprising 1,2-sn-dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine are disclosed in WO 97/13499 (Lim et al).

Many liposomes comprising lipids derivatized with one or more hydrophilic polymers, and methods of preparation thereof, are known in the art. Sunamoto et al. (Bull. Chem. Soc. Jpn., 1980, 53, 2778) described liposomes comprising a nonionic detergent, 2C_(1215G), that contains a PEG moiety. Illum et al. (FEBS Lett., 1984, 167, 79) noted that hydrophilic coating of polystyrene particles with polymeric glycols results in significantly enhanced blood half-lives. Synthetic phospholipids modified by the attachment of carboxylic groups of polyalkylene glycols (e.g., PEG) are described by Sears (U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,426,330 and 4,534,899). Klibanov et al. (FEBS Lett., 1990, 268, 235) described experiments demonstrating that liposomes comprising phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) derivatized with PEG or PEG stearate have significant increases in blood circulation half-lives. Blume et al. (Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, 1990, 1029, 91) extended such observations to other PEG-derivatized phospholipids, e.g., DSPE-PEG, formed from the combination of distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DSPE) and PEG. Liposomes having covalently bound PEG moieties on their external surface are described in European Patent No. EP 0 445 131 B1 and WO 90/04384 to Fisher. Liposome compositions containing 1-20 mole percent of PE derivatized with PEG, and methods of use thereof, are described by Woodle et al. (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,013,556 and 5,356,633) and Martin et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 5,213,804 and European Patent No. EP 0 496 813 B1). Liposomes comprising a number of other lipid-polymer conjugates are disclosed in WO 91/05545 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,225,212 (both to Martin et al.) and in WO 94/20073 (Zalipsky et al.) Liposomes comprising PEG-modified ceramide lipids are described in WO 96/10391 (Choi et al). U.S. Pat. No. 5,540,935 (Miyazaki et al.) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,556,948 (Tagawa et al.) describe PEG-containing liposomes that can be further derivatized with functional moieties on their surfaces.

A number of liposomes comprising nucleic acids are known in the art. WO 96/40062 to Thierry et al. discloses methods for encapsulating high molecular weight nucleic acids in liposomes. U.S. Pat. No. 5,264,221 to Tagawa et al. discloses protein-bonded liposomes and asserts that the contents of such liposomes may include a dsRNA. U.S. Pat. No. 5,665,710 to Rahman et al. describes certain methods of encapsulating oligodeoxynucleotides in liposomes. WO 97/04787 to Love et al. discloses liposomes comprising dsRNAs targeted to the raf gene.

Transfersomes are yet another type of liposomes, and are highly deformable lipid aggregates which are candidates for drug delivery vehicles. Transfersomes may be described as lipid droplets which are so highly deformable that they are easily able to penetrate through pores which are smaller than the droplet. Transfersomes are adaptable to the environment in which they are used, e.g., they are self-optimizing (adaptive to the shape of pores in the skin), self-repairing, frequently reach their targets without fragmenting, and often self-loading. To make transfersomes it is possible to add surface edge-activators, usually surfactants, to a standard liposomal composition. Transfersomes have been used to deliver serum albumin to the skin. The transfersome-mediated delivery of serum albumin has been shown to be as effective as subcutaneous injection of a solution containing serum albumin.

Surfactants find wide application in formulations such as emulsions (including microemulsions) and liposomes. The most common way of classifying and ranking the properties of the many different types of surfactants, both natural and synthetic, is by the use of the hydrophile/lipophile balance (HLB). The nature of the hydrophilic group (also known as the “head”) provides the most useful means for categorizing the different surfactants used in formulations (Rieger, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., 1988, p. 285).

If the surfactant molecule is not ionized, it is classified as a nonionic surfactant. Nonionic surfactants find wide application in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products and are usable over a wide range of pH values. In general their HLB values range from 2 to about 18 depending on their structure. Nonionic surfactants include nonionic esters such as ethylene glycol esters, propylene glycol esters, glyceryl esters, polyglyceryl esters, sorbitan esters, sucrose esters, and ethoxylated esters. Nonionic alkanolamides and ethers such as fatty alcohol ethoxylates, propoxylated alcohols, and ethoxylated/propoxylated block polymers are also included in this class. The polyoxyethylene surfactants are the most popular members of the nonionic surfactant class.

If the surfactant molecule carries a negative charge when it is dissolved or dispersed in water, the surfactant is classified as anionic. Anionic surfactants include carboxylates such as soaps, acyl lactylates, acyl amides of amino acids, esters of sulfuric acid such as alkyl sulfates and ethoxylated alkyl sulfates, sulfonates such as alkyl benzene sulfonates, acyl isethionates, acyl taurates and sulfosuccinates, and phosphates. The most important members of the anionic surfactant class are the alkyl sulfates and the soaps.

If the surfactant molecule carries a positive charge when it is dissolved or dispersed in water, the surfactant is classified as cationic. Cationic surfactants include quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated amines. The quaternary ammonium salts are the most used members of this class.

If the surfactant molecule has the ability to carry either a positive or negative charge, the surfactant is classified as amphoteric. Amphoteric surfactants include acrylic acid derivatives, substituted alkylamides, N-alkylbetaines and phosphatides.

The use of surfactants in drug products, formulations and in emulsions has been reviewed (Rieger, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., 1988, p. 285).

Nucleic Acid Lipid Particles

In one embodiment, a GNAQ dsRNA featured in the invention is fully encapsulated in the lipid formulation, e.g., to form a SPLP, pSPLP, SNALP, or other nucleic acid-lipid particle. As used herein, the term “SNALP” refers to a stable nucleic acid-lipid particle, including SPLP. As used herein, the term “SPLP” refers to a nucleic acid-lipid particle comprising plasmid DNA encapsulated within a lipid vesicle. SNALPs and SPLPs typically contain a cationic lipid, a non-cationic lipid, and a lipid that prevents aggregation of the particle (e.g., a PEG-lipid conjugate). SNALPs and SPLPs are extremely useful for systemic applications, as they exhibit extended circulation lifetimes following intravenous (i.v.) injection and accumulate at distal sites (e.g., sites physically separated from the administration site). SPLPs include “pSPLP,” which include an encapsulated condensing agent-nucleic acid complex as set forth in PCT Publication No. WO 00/03683. The particles of the present invention typically have a mean diameter of about 50 nm to about 150 nm, more typically about 60 nm to about 130 nm, more typically about 70 nm to about 110 nm, most typically about 70 nm to about 90 nm, and are substantially nontoxic. In addition, the nucleic acids when present in the nucleic acid-lipid particles of the present invention are resistant in aqueous solution to degradation with a nuclease. Nucleic acid-lipid particles and their method of preparation are disclosed in, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,976,567; 5,981,501; 6,534,484; 6,586,410; 6,815,432; and PCT Publication No. WO 96/40964.

In one embodiment, the lipid to drug ratio (mass/mass ratio) (e.g., lipid to dsRNA ratio) will be in the range of from about 1:1 to about 50:1, from about 1:1 to about 25:1, from about 3:1 to about 15:1, from about 4:1 to about 10:1, from about 5:1 to about 9:1, or about 6:1 to about 9:1. In some embodiments the lipid to dsRNA ratio can be about 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, 5:1, 6:1, 7:1, 8:1, 9:1, 10:1, or 11:1.

The cationic lipid may be, for example, N,N-dioleyl-N,N-dimethylammonium chloride (DODAC), N,N-distearyl-N,N-dimethylammonium bromide (DDAB), N—(I-(2,3-dioleoyloxy)propyl)-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (DOTAP), N—(I-(2,3-dioleyloxy)propyl)-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (DOTMA), N,N-dimethyl-2,3-dioleyloxy)propylamine (DODMA), 1,2-DiLinoleyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA), 1,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLenDMA), 1,2-Dilinoleylcarbamoyloxy-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLin-C-DAP), 1,2-Dilinoleyoxy-3-(dimethylamino)acetoxypropane (DLin-DAC), 1,2-Dilinoleyoxy-3-morpholinopropane (DLin-MA), 1,2-Dilinoleoyl-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDAP), 1,2-Dilinoleylthio-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLin-S-DMA), 1-Linoleoyl-2-linoleyloxy-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLin-2-DMAP), 1,2-Dilinoleyloxy-3-trimethylaminopropane chloride salt (DLin-TMA.Cl), 1,2-Dilinoleoyl-3-trimethylaminopropane chloride salt (DLin-TAP.Cl), 1,2-Dilinoleyloxy-3-(N-methylpiperazino)propane (DLin-MPZ), or 3-(N,N-Dilinoleylamino)-1,2-propanediol (DLinAP), 3-(N,N-Dioleylamino)-1,2-propanedio (DOAP), 1,2-Dilinoleyloxo-3-(2-N,N-dimethylamino)ethoxypropane (DLin-EG-DMA), 1,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA), 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminomethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane (DLin-K-DMA) or analogs thereof, (3aR,5s,6aS)—N,N-dimethyl-2,2-di((9Z,12Z)-octadeca-9,12-dienyl)tetrahydro-3aH-cyclopenta[d][1,3]dioxol-5-amine (ALN100), (6Z,9Z,28Z,31Z)-heptatriaconta-6,9,28,31-tetraen-19-yl 4-(dimethylamino)butanoate (MC3), 1,1′-(2-(4-(2-((2-(bis(2-hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)(2-hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)piperazin-1-yl)ethylazanediyl)didodecan-2-ol (Tech G1), or a mixture thereof. The cationic lipid may comprise from about 20 mol % to about 50 mol % or about 40 mol % of the total lipid present in the particle.

The non-cationic lipid may be an anionic lipid or a neutral lipid including, but not limited to, distearoylphosphatidylcholine (DSPC), dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC), dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), dioleoylphosphatidylglycerol (DOPG), dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol (DPPG), dioleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE), palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylcholine (POPC), palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (POPE), dioleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine 4-(N-maleimidomethyl)-cyclohexane-1-carboxylate (DOPE-mal), dipalmitoyl phosphatidyl ethanolamine (DPPE), dimyristoylphosphoethanolamine (DMPE), distearoyl-phosphatidyl-ethanolamine (DSPE), 16-O-monomethyl PE, 16-O-dimethyl PE, 18-1-trans PE, 1-stearoyl-2-oleoyl-phosphatidyethanolamine (SOPE), cholesterol, or a mixture thereof. The non-cationic lipid may be from about 5 mol % to about 90 mol %, about 10 mol %, or about 58 mol % if cholesterol is included, of the total lipid present in the particle.

The conjugated lipid that inhibits aggregation of particles may be, for example, a polyethyleneglycol (PEG)-lipid including, without limitation, a PEG-diacylglycerol (DAG), a PEG-dialkyloxypropyl (DAA), a PEG-phospholipid, a PEG-ceramide (Cer), or a mixture thereof. The PEG-DAA conjugate may be, for example, a PEG-dilauryloxypropyl (Ci₂), a PEG-dimyristyloxypropyl (Ci₄), a PEG-dipalmityloxypropyl (Cl₆), or a PEG-distearyloxypropyl (C₁₈). Other examples of PEG conjugates include PEG-cDMA (N-[(methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)2000)carbamyl]-1,2-dimyristyloxlpropyl-3-amine), mPEG2000-DMG (mPEG-dimyrystylglycerol (with an average molecular weight of 2,000) and PEG-C-DOMG (R-3-[(ω-methoxy-poly(ethylene glycol)2000)carbamoyl)]-1,2-dimyristyloxlpropyl-3-amine). The conjugated lipid that prevents aggregation of particles may be from 0 mol % to about 20 mol % or about 1.0, 1.1., 1.2, 0.13, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, or 2 mol % of the total lipid present in the particle.

In some embodiments, the nucleic acid-lipid particle further includes cholesterol at, e.g., about 10 mol % to about 60 mol % or about 48 mol % of the total lipid present in the particle.

In one embodiment, the compound 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane can be used to prepare lipid-siRNA nanoparticles. Synthesis of 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane is described in U.S. provisional patent application No. 61/107,998 filed on Oct. 23, 2008, which is herein incorporated by reference.

For example, the lipid-siRNA particle can include 40% 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane: 10% DSPC: 40% Cholesterol: 10% PEG-C-DOMG (mole percent) with a particle size of 63.0±20 nm and a 0.027 siRNA/Lipid Ratio.

In still another embodiment, the compound 1,1′-(2-(4-(2-((2-(bis(2-hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)(2-hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)piperazin-1-yl)ethylazanediyl)didodecan-2-ol (Tech G1) can be used to prepare lipid-siRNA particles. For example, the dsRNA can be formulated in a lipid formulation comprising Tech-G1, distearoyl phosphatidylcholine (DSPC), cholesterol and mPEG2000-DMG at a molar ratio of 50:10:38.5:1.5 at a total lipid to siRNA ratio of 7:1 (wt:wt).

LNP01

In one embodiment, the lipidoid ND98.4HCl (MW 1487) (Formula 1), Cholesterol (Sigma-Aldrich), and PEG-Ceramide C16 (Avanti Polar Lipids) can be used to prepare lipid-siRNA nanoparticles (i.e., LNP01 particles). Stock solutions of each in ethanol can be prepared as follows: ND98, 133 mg/ml; Cholesterol, 25 mg/ml, PEG-Ceramide C16, 100 mg/ml. The ND98, Cholesterol, and PEG-Ceramide C16 stock solutions can then be combined in a, e.g., 42:48:10 molar ratio. The combined lipid solution can be mixed with aqueous siRNA (e.g., in sodium acetate pH 5) such that the final ethanol concentration is about 35-45% and the final sodium acetate concentration is about 100-300 mM. Lipid-siRNA nanoparticles typically form spontaneously upon mixing. Depending on the desired particle size distribution, the resultant nanoparticle mixture can be extruded through a polycarbonate membrane (e.g., 100 nm cut-off) using, for example, a thermobarrel extruder, such as Lipex Extruder (Northern Lipids, Inc). In some cases, the extrusion step can be omitted. Ethanol removal and simultaneous buffer exchange can be accomplished by, for example, dialysis or tangential flow filtration. Buffer can be exchanged with, for example, phosphate buffered saline (PBS) at about pH 7, e.g., about pH 6.9, about pH 7.0, about pH 7.1, about pH 7.2, about pH 7.3, or about pH 7.4.

LNP01 formulations are described, e.g., in International Application Publication No. WO 2008/042973, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Additional exemplary lipid-siRNA formulations are as follows:

cationic lipid/non-cationic lipid/cholesterol/PEG-lipid conjugate Cationic Lipid Lipid:siRNA ratio Process SNALP 1,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N- DLinDMA/DPPC/Cholesterol/PEG- dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA) cDMA (57.1/7.1/34.4/1.4) lipid:siRNA ~7:1 SNALP- 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DPPC/Cholesterol/PEG-cDMA XTC [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 57.1/7.1/34.4/1.4 lipid:siRNA ~7:1 LNP05 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG Extrusion [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 57.5/7.5/31.5/3.5 lipid:siRNA ~6:1 LNP06 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG Extrusion [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 57.5/7.5/31.5/3.5 lipid:siRNA ~11:1 LNP07 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG In-line [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 60/7.5/31/1.5, mixing lipid:siRNA ~6:1 LNP08 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG In-line [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 60/7.5/31/1.5, mixing lipid:siRNA ~11:1 LNP09 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG In-line [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 50/10/38.5/1.5 mixing Lipid:siRNA 10:1 LNP10 (3aR,5s,6aS)-N,N-dimethyl-2,2- ALN100/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG In-line di((9Z,12Z)-octadeca-9,12- 50/10/38.5/1.5 mixing dienyl)tetrahydro-3aH- Lipid:siRNA 10:1 cyclopenta[d][1,3]dioxol-5-amine (ALN100) LNP11 (6Z,9Z,28Z,31Z)-heptatriaconta- MC-3/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG In-line 6,9,28,31-tetraen-19-yl 4- 50/10/38.5/1.5 mixing (dimethylamino)butanoate (MC3) Lipid:siRNA 10:1 LNP12 1,1′-(2-(4-(2-((2-(bis(2- Tech G1/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG In-line hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)(2- 50/10/38.5/1.5 mixing hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)piperazin- Lipid:siRNA 10:1 1-yl)ethylazanediyl)didodecan-2-ol (Tech G1)

LNP09 formulations and XTC comprising formulations are described, e.g., in U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 61/239,686, filed Sep. 3, 2009, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

LNP11 formulations and MC3 comprising formulations are described, e.g., in U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 61/244,834, filed Sep. 22, 2009, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

LNP12 formulations and TechG1 comprising formulations are described, e.g., in U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 61/175,770, filed May 5, 2009, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Formulations prepared by either the standard or extrusion-free method can be characterized in similar manners. For example, formulations are typically characterized by visual inspection. They should be whitish translucent solutions free from aggregates or sediment. Particle size and particle size distribution of lipid-nanoparticles can be measured by light scattering using, for example, a Malvern Zetasizer Nano ZS (Malvern, USA). Particles should be about 20-300 nm, such as 40-100 nm in size. The particle size distribution should be unimodal. The total siRNA concentration in the formulation, as well as the entrapped fraction, is estimated using a dye exclusion assay. A sample of the formulated siRNA can be incubated with an RNA-binding dye, such as Ribogreen (Molecular Probes) in the presence or absence of a formulation disrupting surfactant, e.g., 0.5% Triton-X100. The total siRNA in the formulation can be determined by the signal from the sample containing the surfactant, relative to a standard curve. The entrapped fraction is determined by subtracting the “free” siRNA content (as measured by the signal in the absence of surfactant) from the total siRNA content. Percent entrapped siRNA is typically >85%. For SNALP formulation, the particle size is at least 30 nm, at least 40 nm, at least 50 nm, at least 60 nm, at least 70 nm, at least 80 nm, at least 90 nm, at least 100 nm, at least 110 nm, and at least 120 nm. The suitable range is typically about at least 50 nm to about at least 110 nm, about at least 60 nm to about at least 100 nm, or about at least 80 nm to about at least 90 nm.

Compositions and formulations for oral administration include powders or granules, microparticulates, nanoparticulates, suspensions or solutions in water or non-aqueous media, capsules, gel capsules, sachets, tablets or minitablets. Thickeners, flavoring agents, diluents, emulsifiers, dispersing aids or binders may be desirable. In some embodiments, oral formulations are those in which dsRNAs featured in the invention are administered in conjunction with one or more penetration enhancers surfactants and chelators. Suitable surfactants include fatty acids and/or esters or salts thereof, bile acids and/or salts thereof. Suitable bile acids/salts include chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and ursodeoxychenodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), cholic acid, dehydrocholic acid, deoxycholic acid, glucholic acid, glycholic acid, glycodeoxycholic acid, taurocholic acid, taurodeoxycholic acid, sodium tauro-24,25-dihydro-fusidate and sodium glycodihydrofusidate. Suitable fatty acids include arachidonic acid, undecanoic acid, oleic acid, lauric acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, dicaprate, tricaprate, monoolein, dilaurin, glyceryl 1-monocaprate, 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, an acylcarnitine, an acylcholine, or a monoglyceride, a diglyceride or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof (e.g., sodium). In some embodiments, combinations of penetration enhancers are used, for example, fatty acids/salts in combination with bile acids/salts. One exemplary combination is the sodium salt of lauric acid, capric acid and UDCA. Further penetration enhancers include polyoxyethylene-9-lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene-20-cetyl ether. DsRNAs featured in the invention may be delivered orally, in granular form including sprayed dried particles, or complexed to form micro or nanoparticles. DsRNA complexing agents include poly-amino acids; polyimines; polyacrylates; polyalkylacrylates, polyoxethanes, polyalkylcyanoacrylates; cationized gelatins, albumins, starches, acrylates, polyethyleneglycols (PEG) and starches; polyalkylcyanoacrylates; DEAE-derivatized polyimines, pollulans, celluloses and starches. Suitable complexing agents include chitosan, N-trimethylchitosan, poly-L-lysine, polyhistidine, polyornithine, polyspermines, protamine, polyvinylpyridine, polythiodiethylaminomethylethylene P(TDAE), polyaminostyrene (e.g., p-amino), poly(methylcyanoacrylate), poly(ethylcyanoacrylate), poly(butylcyanoacrylate), poly(isobutylcyanoacrylate), poly(isohexylcynaoacrylate), DEAE-methacrylate, DEAE-hexylacrylate, DEAE-acrylamide, DEAE-albumin and DEAE-dextran, polymethylacrylate, polyhexylacrylate, poly(D,L-lactic acid), poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), alginate, and polyethyleneglycol (PEG). Oral formulations for dsRNAs and their preparation are described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,887,906, US Publn. No. 20030027780, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Compositions and formulations for parenteral, intraparenchymal (into the brain), intrathecal, intraventricular or intrahepatic administration may include sterile aqueous solutions which may also contain buffers, diluents and other suitable additives such as, but not limited to, penetration enhancers, carrier compounds and other pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or excipients.

Pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, solutions, emulsions, and liposome-containing formulations. These compositions may be generated from a variety of components that include, but are not limited to, preformed liquids, self-emulsifying solids and self-emulsifying semisolids. Particularly preferred are formulations that target the liver when treating hepatic disorders such as hepatic carcinoma.

The pharmaceutical formulations of the present invention, which may conveniently be presented in unit dosage form, may be prepared according to conventional techniques well known in the pharmaceutical industry. Such techniques include the step of bringing into association the active ingredients with the pharmaceutical carrier(s) or excipient(s). In general, the formulations are prepared by uniformly and intimately bringing into association the active ingredients with liquid carriers or finely divided solid carriers or both, and then, if necessary, shaping the product.

The compositions of the present invention may be formulated into any of many possible dosage forms such as, but not limited to, tablets, capsules, gel capsules, liquid syrups, soft gels, suppositories, and enemas. The compositions of the present invention may also be formulated as suspensions in aqueous, non-aqueous or mixed media. Aqueous suspensions may further contain substances which increase the viscosity of the suspension including, for example, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, sorbitol and/or dextran. The suspension may also contain stabilizers.

Emulsions

The compositions of the present invention may be prepared and formulated as emulsions. Emulsions are typically heterogeneous systems of one liquid dispersed in another in the form of droplets usually exceeding 0.1 μm in diameter (Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199; Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., Volume 1, p. 245; Block in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 2, p. 335; Higuchi et al., in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1985, p. 301). Emulsions are often biphasic systems comprising two immiscible liquid phases intimately mixed and dispersed with each other. In general, emulsions may be of either the water-in-oil (w/o) or the oil-in-water (o/w) variety. When an aqueous phase is finely divided into and dispersed as minute droplets into a bulk oily phase, the resulting composition is called a water-in-oil (w/o) emulsion. Alternatively, when an oily phase is finely divided into and dispersed as minute droplets into a bulk aqueous phase, the resulting composition is called an oil-in-water (o/w) emulsion. Emulsions may contain additional components in addition to the dispersed phases, and the active drug which may be present as a solution in either the aqueous phase, oily phase or itself as a separate phase. Pharmaceutical excipients such as emulsifiers, stabilizers, dyes, and anti-oxidants may also be present in emulsions as needed. Pharmaceutical emulsions may also be multiple emulsions that are comprised of more than two phases such as, for example, in the case of oil-in-water-in-oil (o/w/o) and water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) emulsions. Such complex formulations often provide certain advantages that simple binary emulsions do not. Multiple emulsions in which individual oil droplets of an o/w emulsion enclose small water droplets constitute a w/o/w emulsion. Likewise a system of oil droplets enclosed in globules of water stabilized in an oily continuous phase provides an o/w/o emulsion.

Emulsions are characterized by little or no thermodynamic stability. Often, the dispersed or discontinuous phase of the emulsion is well dispersed into the external or continuous phase and maintained in this form through the means of emulsifiers or the viscosity of the formulation. Either of the phases of the emulsion may be a semisolid or a solid, as is the case of emulsion-style ointment bases and creams. Other means of stabilizing emulsions entail the use of emulsifiers that may be incorporated into either phase of the emulsion. Emulsifiers may broadly be classified into four categories: synthetic surfactants, naturally occurring emulsifiers, absorption bases, and finely dispersed solids (Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199).

Synthetic surfactants, also known as surface active agents, have found wide applicability in the formulation of emulsions and have been reviewed in the literature (Rieger, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 285; Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., 1988, volume 1, p. 199). Surfactants are typically amphiphilic and comprise a hydrophilic and a hydrophobic portion. The ratio of the hydrophilic to the hydrophobic nature of the surfactant has been termed the hydrophile/lipophile balance (HLB) and is a valuable tool in categorizing and selecting surfactants in the preparation of formulations. Surfactants may be classified into different classes based on the nature of the hydrophilic group: nonionic, anionic, cationic and amphoteric (Rieger, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 285).

Naturally occurring emulsifiers used in emulsion formulations include lanolin, beeswax, phosphatides, lecithin and acacia. Absorption bases possess hydrophilic properties such that they can soak up water to form w/o emulsions yet retain their semisolid consistencies, such as anhydrous lanolin and hydrophilic petrolatum. Finely divided solids have also been used as good emulsifiers especially in combination with surfactants and in viscous preparations. These include polar inorganic solids, such as heavy metal hydroxides, nonswelling clays such as bentonite, attapulgite, hectorite, kaolin, montmorillonite, colloidal aluminum silicate and colloidal magnesium aluminum silicate, pigments and nonpolar solids such as carbon or glyceryl tristearate.

A large variety of non-emulsifying materials are also included in emulsion formulations and contribute to the properties of emulsions. These include fats, oils, waxes, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, fatty esters, humectants, hydrophilic colloids, preservatives and antioxidants (Block, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 335; Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199).

Hydrophilic colloids or hydrocolloids include naturally occurring gums and synthetic polymers such as polysaccharides (for example, acacia, agar, alginic acid, carrageenan, guar gum, karaya gum, and tragacanth), cellulose derivatives (for example, carboxymethylcellulose and carboxypropylcellulose), and synthetic polymers (for example, carbomers, cellulose ethers, and carboxyvinyl polymers). These disperse or swell in water to form colloidal solutions that stabilize emulsions by forming strong interfacial films around the dispersed-phase droplets and by increasing the viscosity of the external phase.

Since emulsions often contain a number of ingredients such as carbohydrates, proteins, sterols and phosphatides that may readily support the growth of microbes, these formulations often incorporate preservatives. Commonly used preservatives included in emulsion formulations include methyl paraben, propyl paraben, quaternary ammonium salts, benzalkonium chloride, esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and boric acid. Antioxidants are also commonly added to emulsion formulations to prevent deterioration of the formulation. Antioxidants used may be free radical scavengers such as tocopherols, alkyl gallates, butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, or reducing agents such as ascorbic acid and sodium metabisulfite, and antioxidant synergists such as citric acid, tartaric acid, and lecithin.

The application of emulsion formulations via dermatological, oral and parenteral routes and methods for their manufacture have been reviewed in the literature (Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199). Emulsion formulations for oral delivery have been very widely used because of ease of formulation, as well as efficacy from an absorption and bioavailability standpoint (Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245; Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199). Mineral-oil base laxatives, oil-soluble vitamins and high fat nutritive preparations are among the materials that have commonly been administered orally as o/w emulsions.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the compositions of dsRNAs and nucleic acids are formulated as microemulsions. A microemulsion may be defined as a system of water, oil and amphiphile which is a single optically isotropic and thermodynamically stable liquid solution (Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245). Typically microemulsions are systems that are prepared by first dispersing an oil in an aqueous surfactant solution and then adding a sufficient amount of a fourth component, generally an intermediate chain-length alcohol to form a transparent system. Therefore, microemulsions have also been described as thermodynamically stable, isotropically clear dispersions of two immiscible liquids that are stabilized by interfacial films of surface-active molecules (Leung and Shah, in: Controlled Release of Drugs: Polymers and Aggregate Systems, Rosoff, M., Ed., 1989, VCH Publishers, New York, pages 185-215). Microemulsions commonly are prepared via a combination of three to five components that include oil, water, surfactant, cosurfactant and electrolyte. Whether the microemulsion is of the water-in-oil (w/o) or an oil-in-water (o/w) type is dependent on the properties of the oil and surfactant used and on the structure and geometric packing of the polar heads and hydrocarbon tails of the surfactant molecules (Schott, in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1985, p. 271).

The phenomenological approach utilizing phase diagrams has been extensively studied and has yielded a comprehensive knowledge, to one skilled in the art, of how to formulate microemulsions (Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245; Block, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 335). Compared to conventional emulsions, microemulsions offer the advantage of solubilizing water-insoluble drugs in a formulation of thermodynamically stable droplets that are formed spontaneously.

Surfactants used in the preparation of microemulsions include, but are not limited to, ionic surfactants, non-ionic surfactants, Brij 96, polyoxyethylene oleyl ethers, polyglycerol fatty acid esters, tetraglycerol monolaurate (ML310), tetraglycerol monooleate (M0310), hexaglycerol monooleate (PO310), hexaglycerol pentaoleate (PO500), decaglycerol monocaprate (MCA750), decaglycerol monooleate (M0750), decaglycerol sequioleate (S0750), decaglycerol decaoleate (DA0750), alone or in combination with cosurfactants. The cosurfactant, usually a short-chain alcohol such as ethanol, 1-propanol, and 1-butanol, serves to increase the interfacial fluidity by penetrating into the surfactant film and consequently creating a disordered film because of the void space generated among surfactant molecules. Microemulsions may, however, be prepared without the use of cosurfactants and alcohol-free self-emulsifying microemulsion systems are known in the art. The aqueous phase may typically be, but is not limited to, water, an aqueous solution of the drug, glycerol, PEG300, PEG400, polyglycerols, propylene glycols, and derivatives of ethylene glycol. The oil phase may include, but is not limited to, materials such as Captex 300, Captex 355, Capmul MCM, fatty acid esters, medium chain (C8-C12) mono, di, and tri-glycerides, polyoxyethylated glyceryl fatty acid esters, fatty alcohols, polyglycolized glycerides, saturated polyglycolized C8-C10 glycerides, vegetable oils and silicone oil.

Microemulsions are particularly of interest from the standpoint of drug solubilization and the enhanced absorption of drugs. Lipid based microemulsions (both o/w and w/o) have been proposed to enhance the oral bioavailability of drugs, including peptides (Constantinides et al., Pharmaceutical Research, 1994, 11, 1385-1390; Ritschel, Meth. Find. Exp. Clin. Pharmacol., 1993, 13, 205). Microemulsions afford advantages of improved drug solubilization, protection of drug from enzymatic hydrolysis, possible enhancement of drug absorption due to surfactant-induced alterations in membrane fluidity and permeability, ease of preparation, ease of oral administration over solid dosage forms, improved clinical potency, and decreased toxicity (Constantinides et al., Pharmaceutical Research, 1994, 11, 1385; Ho et al., J. Pharm. Sci., 1996, 85, 138-143). Often microemulsions may form spontaneously when their components are brought together at ambient temperature. This may be particularly advantageous when formulating thermolabile drugs, peptides or dsRNAs. Microemulsions have also been effective in the transdermal delivery of active components in both cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. It is expected that the microemulsion compositions and formulations of the present invention will facilitate the increased systemic absorption of dsRNAs and nucleic acids from the gastrointestinal tract, as well as improve the local cellular uptake of dsRNAs and nucleic acids.

Microemulsions of the present invention may also contain additional components and additives such as sorbitan monostearate (Grill 3), Labrasol, and penetration enhancers to improve the properties of the formulation and to enhance the absorption of the dsRNAs and nucleic acids of the present invention. Penetration enhancers used in the microemulsions of the present invention may be classified as belonging to one of five broad categories—surfactants, fatty acids, bile salts, chelating agents, and non-chelating non-surfactants (Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, p. 92). Each of these classes has been discussed above.

Penetration Enhancers

In one embodiment, the present invention employs various penetration enhancers to effect the efficient delivery of nucleic acids, particularly dsRNAs, to the skin of animals. Most drugs are present in solution in both ionized and nonionized forms. However, usually only lipid soluble or lipophilic drugs readily cross cell membranes. It has been discovered that even non-lipophilic drugs may cross cell membranes if the membrane to be crossed is treated with a penetration enhancer. In addition to aiding the diffusion of non-lipophilic drugs across cell membranes, penetration enhancers also enhance the permeability of lipophilic drugs.

Penetration enhancers may be classified as belonging to one of five broad categories, i.e., surfactants, fatty acids, bile salts, chelating agents, and non-chelating non-surfactants (Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, p. 92). Each of the above mentioned classes of penetration enhancers are described below in greater detail.

Surfactants: In connection with the present invention, surfactants (or “surface-active agents”) are chemical entities which, when dissolved in an aqueous solution, reduce the surface tension of the solution or the interfacial tension between the aqueous solution and another liquid, with the result that absorption of dsRNAs through the mucosa is enhanced. In addition to bile salts and fatty acids, these penetration enhancers include, for example, sodium lauryl sulfate, polyoxyethylene-9-lauryl ether and polyoxyethylene-20-cetyl ether) (Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, p. 92); and perfluorochemical emulsions, such as FC-43. Takahashi et al., J. Pharm. Pharmacol., 1988, 40, 252).

Fatty acids: Various fatty acids and their derivatives which act as penetration enhancers include, for example, oleic acid, lauric acid, capric acid (n-decanoic acid), myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, dicaprate, tricaprate, monoolein (1-monooleoyl-rac-glycerol), dilaurin, caprylic acid, arachidonic acid, glycerol 1-monocaprate, 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, acylcarnitines, acylcholines, C.sub.1-10 alkyl esters thereof (e.g., methyl, isopropyl and t-butyl), and mono- and di-glycerides thereof (i.e., oleate, laurate, caprate, myristate, palmitate, stearate, linoleate, etc.) (Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, p. 92; Muranishi, Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33; E1 Hariri et al., J. Pharm. Pharmacol., 1992, 44, 651-654).

Bile salts: The physiological role of bile includes the facilitation of dispersion and absorption of lipids and fat-soluble vitamins (Brunton, Chapter 38 in: Goodman & Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 9th Ed., Hardman et al. Eds., McGraw-Hill, New York, 1996, pp. 934-935). Various natural bile salts, and their synthetic derivatives, act as penetration enhancers. Thus the term “bile salts” includes any of the naturally occurring components of bile as well as any of their synthetic derivatives. Suitable bile salts include, for example, cholic acid (or its pharmaceutically acceptable sodium salt, sodium cholate), dehydrocholic acid (sodium dehydrocholate), deoxycholic acid (sodium deoxycholate), glucholic acid (sodium glucholate), glycholic acid (sodium glycocholate), glycodeoxycholic acid (sodium glycodeoxycholate), taurocholic acid (sodium taurocholate), taurodeoxycholic acid (sodium taurodeoxycholate), chenodeoxycholic acid (sodium chenodeoxycholate), ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), sodium tauro-24,25-dihydro-fusidate (STDHF), sodium glycodihydrofusidate and polyoxyethylene-9-lauryl ether (POE) (Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, page 92; Swinyard, Chapter 39 In: Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, 18th Ed., Gennaro, ed., Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1990, pages 782-783; Muranishi, Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33; Yamamoto et al., J. Pharm. Exp. Ther., 1992, 263, 25; Yamashita et al., J. Pharm. Sci., 1990, 79, 579-583).

Chelating Agents: Chelating agents, as used in connection with the present invention, can be defined as compounds that remove metallic ions from solution by forming complexes therewith, with the result that absorption of dsRNAs through the mucosa is enhanced. With regards to their use as penetration enhancers in the present invention, chelating agents have the added advantage of also serving as DNase inhibitors, as most characterized DNA nucleases require a divalent metal ion for catalysis and are thus inhibited by chelating agents (Jarrett, J. Chromatogr., 1993, 618, 315-339). Suitable chelating agents include but are not limited to disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA), citric acid, salicylates (e.g., sodium salicylate, 5-methoxysalicylate and homovanilate), N-acyl derivatives of collagen, laureth-9 and N-amino acyl derivatives of beta-diketones (enamines) (Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, page 92; Muranishi, Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33; Buur et al., J. Control Rel., 1990, 14, 43-51).

Non-chelating non-surfactants: As used herein, non-chelating non-surfactant penetration enhancing compounds can be defined as compounds that demonstrate insignificant activity as chelating agents or as surfactants but that nonetheless enhance absorption of dsRNAs through the alimentary mucosa (Muranishi, Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33). This class of penetration enhancers include, for example, unsaturated cyclic ureas, 1-alkyl- and 1-alkenylazacyclo-alkanone derivatives (Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, page 92); and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents such as diclofenac sodium, indomethacin and phenylbutazone (Yamashita et al., J. Pharm. Pharmacol., 1987, 39, 621-626).

Carriers

Certain compositions of the present invention also incorporate carrier compounds in the formulation. As used herein, “carrier compound” or “carrier” can refer to a nucleic acid, or analog thereof, which is inert (i.e., does not possess biological activity per se) but is recognized as a nucleic acid by in vivo processes that reduce the bioavailability of a nucleic acid having biological activity by, for example, degrading the biologically active nucleic acid or promoting its removal from circulation. The coadministration of a nucleic acid and a carrier compound, typically with an excess of the latter substance, can result in a substantial reduction of the amount of nucleic acid recovered in the liver, kidney or other extracirculatory reservoirs, presumably due to competition between the carrier compound and the nucleic acid for a common receptor. For example, the recovery of a partially phosphorothioate dsRNA in hepatic tissue can be reduced when it is coadministered with polyinosinic acid, dextran sulfate, polycytidic acid or 4-acetamido-4′ isothiocyano-stilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid (Miyao et al., DsRNA Res. Dev., 1995, 5, 115-121; Takakura et al., DsRNA & Nucl. Acid Drug Dev., 1996, 6, 177-183.

Excipients

In contrast to a carrier compound, a “pharmaceutical carrier” or “excipient” is a pharmaceutically acceptable solvent, suspending agent or any other pharmacologically inert vehicle for delivering one or more nucleic acids to an animal. The excipient may be liquid or solid and is selected, with the planned manner of administration in mind, so as to provide for the desired bulk, consistency, etc., when combined with a nucleic acid and the other components of a given pharmaceutical composition. Typical pharmaceutical carriers include, but are not limited to, binding agents (e.g., pregelatinized maize starch, polyvinylpyrrolidone or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, etc.); fillers (e.g., lactose and other sugars, microcrystalline cellulose, pectin, gelatin, calcium sulfate, ethyl cellulose, polyacrylates or calcium hydrogen phosphate, etc.); lubricants (e.g., magnesium stearate, talc, silica, colloidal silicon dioxide, stearic acid, metallic stearates, hydrogenated vegetable oils, corn starch, polyethylene glycols, sodium benzoate, sodium acetate, etc.); disintegrants (e.g., starch, sodium starch glycolate, etc.); and wetting agents (e.g., sodium lauryl sulphate, etc).

Pharmaceutically acceptable organic or inorganic excipients suitable for non-parenteral administration which do not deleteriously react with nucleic acids can also be used to formulate the compositions of the present invention. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include, but are not limited to, water, salt solutions, alcohols, polyethylene glycols, gelatin, lactose, amylose, magnesium stearate, talc, silicic acid, viscous paraffin, hydroxymethylcellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone and the like.

Formulations for topical administration of nucleic acids may include sterile and non-sterile aqueous solutions, non-aqueous solutions in common solvents such as alcohols, or solutions of the nucleic acids in liquid or solid oil bases. The solutions may also contain buffers, diluents and other suitable additives. Pharmaceutically acceptable organic or inorganic excipients suitable for non-parenteral administration which do not deleteriously react with nucleic acids can be used.

Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable excipients include, but are not limited to, water, salt solutions, alcohol, polyethylene glycols, gelatin, lactose, amylose, magnesium stearate, talc, silicic acid, viscous paraffin, hydroxymethylcellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone and the like.

Other Components

The compositions of the present invention may additionally contain other adjunct components conventionally found in pharmaceutical compositions, at their art-established usage levels. Thus, for example, the compositions may contain additional, compatible, pharmaceutically-active materials such as, for example, antipruritics, astringents, local anesthetics or anti-inflammatory agents, or may contain additional materials useful in physically formulating various dosage forms of the compositions of the present invention, such as dyes, flavoring agents, preservatives, antioxidants, opacifiers, thickening agents and stabilizers. However, such materials, when added, should not unduly interfere with the biological activities of the components of the compositions of the present invention. The formulations can be sterilized and, if desired, mixed with auxiliary agents, e.g., lubricants, preservatives, stabilizers, wetting agents, emulsifiers, salts for influencing osmotic pressure, buffers, colorings, flavorings and/or aromatic substances and the like which do not deleteriously interact with the nucleic acid(s) of the formulation.

Aqueous suspensions may contain substances which increase the viscosity of the suspension including, for example, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, sorbitol and/or dextran. The suspension may also contain stabilizers.

In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions featured in the invention include (a) one or more dsRNA compounds and (b) one or more anti-cytokine biologic agents which function by a non-RNAi mechanism. Examples of such biologics include, biologics that target IL 1β (e.g., anakinra), IL6 (tocilizumab), or TNF (etanercept, infliximab, adlimumab, or certolizumab).

Toxicity and therapeutic efficacy of such compounds can be determined by standard pharmaceutical procedures in cell cultures or experimental animals, e.g., for determining the LD50 (the dose lethal to 50% of the population) and the ED50 (the dose therapeutically effective in 50% of the population). The dose ratio between toxic and therapeutic effects is the therapeutic index and it can be expressed as the ratio LD50/ED50. Compounds that exhibit high therapeutic indices are preferred.

The data obtained from cell culture assays and animal studies can be used in formulating a range of dosage for use in humans. The dosage of compositions featured in the invention lies generally within a range of circulating concentrations that include the ED50 with little or no toxicity. The dosage may vary within this range depending upon the dosage form employed and the route of administration utilized. For any compound used in the methods featured in the invention, the therapeutically effective dose can be estimated initially from cell culture assays. A dose may be formulated in animal models to achieve a circulating plasma concentration range of the compound or, when appropriate, of the polypeptide product of a target sequence (e.g., achieving a decreased concentration of the polypeptide) that includes the IC50 (i.e., the concentration of the test compound which achieves a half-maximal inhibition of symptoms) as determined in cell culture. Such information can be used to more accurately determine useful doses in humans. Levels in plasma may be measured, for example, by high performance liquid chromatography.

In addition to their administration, as discussed above, the dsRNAs featured in the invention can be administered in combination with other known agents effective in treatment of pathological processes mediated by GNAQ expression. In any event, the administering physician can adjust the amount and timing of dsRNA administration on the basis of results observed using standard measures of efficacy known in the art or described herein.

Methods for Treating Diseases Caused by Expression of a GNAQ Gene

The invention relates in particular to the use of a dsRNA targeting GNAQ and compositions containing at least one such dsRNA for the treatment of a GNAQ-mediated disorder or disease. For example, a dsRNA targeting a GNAQ gene can be useful for the treatment of cancers that have either an activating mutation of GNAQ and/or are the result of overexpression of GNAQ. Tumors to be targeted include uveal melanoma, cutaneous melanoma, Blue nevi, Nevi of Ota, and neuroendocrine tumors (including but not limited to carcinoid tumors, large cell lung cancer, and small cell lung cancer).

A dsRNA targeting a GNAQ gene is also used for treatment of symptoms of disorders, such as uveal melanoma. Symptoms associated include, e.g., melanoma progression, increasing eye pressure, pain in the eye, and impaired peripheral vision.

Owing to the inhibitory effects on GNAQ expression, a composition according to the invention or a pharmaceutical composition prepared therefrom can enhance the quality of life.

The invention further relates to the use of a dsRNA or a pharmaceutical composition thereof, e.g., for treating a GNAQ mediated disorder or disease, in combination with other pharmaceuticals and/or other therapeutic methods, e.g., with known pharmaceuticals and/or known therapeutic methods, such as, for example, those which are currently employed for treating these disorders. In one example, a dsRNA targeting GNAQ can be administered in combination with radiation therapy. In other examples, a dsRNA targeting GNAQ can be administered in combination with a pharmaceutical or therapeutic method for treating a symptom of a GNAQ disease, such as pain medication.

The dsRNA and an additional therapeutic agent can be administered in the same combination, e.g., parenterally, or the additional therapeutic agent can be administered as part of a separate composition or by another method described herein.

The invention features a method of administering a dsRNA targeting GNAQ to a patient having a disease or disorder mediated by GNAQ expression, such as a uveal melanoma. Administration of the dsRNA can stabilize and improve vision, for example, in a patient with uveal melanoma. Patients can be administered a therapeutic amount of dsRNA, such as 0.5 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 2.0 mg/kg, or 2.5 mg/kg dsRNA. The dsRNA can be administered by intravenous infusion over a period of time, such as over a 5 minute, 10 minute, 15 minute, 20 minute, or 25 minute period. The administration is repeated, for example, on a regular basis, such as biweekly (i.e., every two weeks) for one month, two months, three months, four months or longer. After an initial treatment regimen, the treatments can be administered on a less frequent basis. For example, after administration biweekly for three months, administration can be repeated once per month, for six months or a year or longer. Administration of the dsRNA can reduce GNAQ levels in the blood or urine of the patient by at least 20%, 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% or more.

Before administration of a full dose of the dsRNA, patients can be administered a smaller dose, such as a 5% infusion reaction, and monitored for adverse effects, such as an allergic reaction.

Many GNAQ-associated diseases and disorders are hereditary. Therefore, a patient in need of a GNAQ dsRNA can be identified by taking a family history. A healthcare provider, such as a doctor, nurse, or family member, can take a family history before prescribing or administering a GNAQ dsRNA. A DNA test may also be performed on the patient to identify a mutation in the GNAQ gene, before a GNAQ dsRNA is administered to the patient.

Methods for Inhibiting Expression of a GNAQ Gene

In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method for inhibiting the expression of a GNAQ gene in a mammal. The method includes administering a composition featured in the invention to the mammal such that expression of the target GNAQ gene is reduced or silenced.

When the organism to be treated is a mammal such as a human, the composition may be administered by any means known in the art including, but not limited to oral or parenteral routes, including intracranial (e.g., intraventricular, intraparenchymal and intrathecal), intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, transdermal, airway (aerosol), nasal, rectal, and topical (including buccal and sublingual) administration. In certain embodiments, the compositions are administered by intravenous infusion or injection.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the dsRNAs and methods featured in the invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

EXAMPLES

Below are examples of specific embodiments for carrying out the present invention. The examples are offered for illustrative purposes only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers used (e.g., amounts, temperatures, etc.), but some experimental error and deviation should, of course, be allowed for.

Other embodiments are, for example, in the claims.

The practice of the present invention will employ, unless otherwise indicated, conventional methods of protein chemistry, biochemistry, recombinant DNA techniques and pharmacology, within the skill of the art. Such techniques are explained fully in the literature. See, e.g., T. E. Creighton, Proteins: Structures and Molecular Properties (W.H. Freeman and Company, 1993); A. L. Lehninger, Biochemistry (Worth Publishers, Inc., current addition); Sambrook, et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual (2nd Edition, 1989); Methods In Enzymology (S. Colowick and N. Kaplan eds., Academic Press, Inc.); Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, 18th Edition (Easton, Pa.: Mack Publishing Company, 1990); Carey and Sundberg Advanced Organic Chemistry 3rd Ed. (Plenum Press) Vols A and B (1992).

Example 1 dsRNA Synthesis

Source of Reagents

Where the source of a reagent is not specifically given herein, such reagent may be obtained from any supplier of reagents for molecular biology at a quality/purity standard for application in molecular biology.

Conjugates

For the synthesis of 3′-cholesterol-conjugated siRNAs (herein referred to as -Chol-3′), an appropriately modified solid support is used for RNA synthesis. The modified solid support is prepared as follows:

Diethyl-2-azabutane-1,4-dicarboxylate AA

A 4.7 M aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide (50 mL) is added into a stirred, ice-cooled solution of ethyl glycinate hydrochloride (32.19 g, 0.23 mole) in water (50 mL). Then, ethyl acrylate (23.1 g, 0.23 mole) is added and the mixture is stirred at room temperature until completion of the reaction is ascertained by TLC. After 19 h the solution is partitioned with dichloromethane (3×100 mL). The organic layer is dried with anhydrous sodium sulfate, filtered and evaporated. The residue is distilled to afford AA (28.8 g, 61%).

3-{Ethoxycarbonylmethyl-[6-(9H-fluoren-9-ylmethoxycarbonyl-amino)-hexanoyl]-amino}-propionic acid ethyl ester AB

Fmoc-6-amino-hexanoic acid (9.12 g, 25.83 mmol) is dissolved in dichloromethane (50 mL) and cooled with ice. Diisopropylcarbodiimde (3.25 g, 3.99 mL, 25.83 mmol) is added to the solution at 0° C. It is then followed by the addition of Diethyl-azabutane-1,4-dicarboxylate (5 g, 24.6 mmol) and dimethylamino pyridine (0.305 g, 2.5 mmol). The solution is brought to room temperature and stirred further for 6 h. Completion of the reaction is ascertained by TLC. The reaction mixture is concentrated under vacuum and ethyl acetate is added to precipitate diisopropyl urea. The suspension is filtered. The filtrate is washed with 5% aqueous hydrochloric acid, 5% sodium bicarbonate and water. The combined organic layer is dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated to give the crude product which is purified by column chromatography (50% EtOAC/Hexanes) to yield 11.87 g (88%) of AB.

3-[(6-Amino-hexanoyl)-ethoxycarbonylmethyl-amino]-propionic acid ethyl ester AC

3-{Ethoxycarbonylmethyl-[6-(9H-fluoren-9-ylmethoxycarbonylamino)-hexanoyl]-amino}-propionic acid ethyl ester AB (11.5 g, 21.3 mmol) is dissolved in 20% piperidine in dimethylformamide at 0° C. The solution is continued stirring for 1 h. The reaction mixture is concentrated under vacuum, water is added to the residue, and the product is extracted with ethyl acetate. The crude product is purified by conversion into its hydrochloride salt.

3-({6-[17-(1,5-Dimethyl-hexyl)-10,13-dimethyl-2,3,4,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-yloxycarbonylamino]-hexanoyl}ethoxycarbonylmethyl-amino)-propionic acid ethyl ester AD

The hydrochloride salt of 3-[(6-Amino-hexanoyl)-ethoxycarbonylmethyl-amino]-propionic acid ethyl ester AC (4.7 g, 14.8 mmol) is taken up in dichloromethane. The suspension is cooled to 0° C. on ice. To the suspension diisopropylethylamine (3.87 g, 5.2 mL, 30 mmol) is added. To the resulting solution cholesteryl chloroformate (6.675 g, 14.8 mmol) is added. The reaction mixture is stirred overnight. The reaction mixture is diluted with dichloromethane and washed with 10% hydrochloric acid. The product is purified by flash chromatography (10.3 g, 92%).

1-{6-[17-(1,5-Dimethyl-hexyl)-10,13-dimethyl-2,3,4,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a] phenanthren-3-yloxycarbonylamino]-hexanoyl}-4-oxo-pyrrolidine-3-carboxylic acid ethyl ester AE

Potassium t-butoxide (1.1 g, 9.8 mmol) is slurried in 30 mL of dry toluene. The mixture is cooled to 0° C. on ice and 5 g (6.6 mmol) of diester AD is added slowly with stirring within 20 mins. The temperature is kept below 5° C. during the addition. The stirring is continued for 30 mins at 0° C. and 1 mL of glacial acetic acid is added, immediately followed by 4 g of NaH₂PO₄.H₂O in 40 mL of water The resultant mixture is extracted twice with 100 mL of dichloromethane each and the combined organic extracts are washed twice with 10 mL of phosphate buffer each, dried, and evaporated to dryness. The residue is dissolved in 60 mL of toluene, cooled to 0° C. and extracted with three 50 mL portions of cold pH 9.5 carbonate buffer. The aqueous extracts are adjusted to pH 3 with phosphoric acid, and extracted with five 40 mL portions of chloroform which are combined, dried and evaporated to dryness. The residue is purified by column chromatography using 25% ethylacetate/hexane to afford 1.9 g of b-ketoester (39%).

[6-(3-Hydroxy-4-hydroxymethyl-pyrrolidin-1-yl)-6-oxo-hexyl]-carbamic acid 17-(1,5-dimethyl-hexyl)-10,13-dimethyl-2,3,4,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-yl ester AF

Methanol (2 mL) is added dropwise over a period of 1 h to a refluxing mixture of b-ketoester AE (1.5 g, 2.2 mmol) and sodium borohydride (0.226 g, 6 mmol) in tetrahydrofuran (10 mL). Stirring is continued at reflux temperature for 1 h. After cooling to room temperature, 1 N HCl (12.5 mL) is added, the mixture is extracted with ethylacetate (3×40 mL). The combined ethylacetate layer is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to yield the product which is purified by column chromatography (10% MeOH/CHCl₃) (89%).

(6-{3-[Bis-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-phenyl-methoxymethyl]-4-hydroxy-pyrrolidin-1-yl}-6-oxo-hexyl)-carbamic acid 17-(1,5-dimethyl-hexyl)-10,13-dimethyl-2,3,4,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-yl ester AG

Diol AF (1.25 gm 1.994 mmol) is dried by evaporating with pyridine (2×5 mL) in vacuo. Anhydrous pyridine (10 mL) and 4,4′-dimethoxytritylchloride (0.724 g, 2.13 mmol) are added with stirring. The reaction is carried out at room temperature overnight. The reaction is quenched by the addition of methanol. The reaction mixture is concentrated under vacuum and to the residue dichloromethane (50 mL) is added. The organic layer is washed with 1M aqueous sodium bicarbonate. The organic layer is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, filtered and concentrated. The residual pyridine is removed by evaporating with toluene. The crude product is purified by column chromatography (2% MeOH/Chloroform, Rf=0.5 in 5% MeOH/CHCl₃) (1.75 g, 95%).

Succinic acid mono-(4-[bis-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-phenyl-methoxymethyl]-1-{6-[17-(1,5-dimethyl-hexyl)-10,13-dimethyl 2,3,4,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydro-1H cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-yloxycarbonylamino]-hexanoyl}-pyrrolidin-3-yl) ester AH

Compound AG (1.0 g, 1.05 mmol) is mixed with succinic anhydride (0.150 g, 1.5 mmol) and DMAP (0.073 g, 0.6 mmol) and dried in a vacuum at 40° C. overnight. The mixture is dissolved in anhydrous dichloroethane (3 mL), triethylamine (0.318 g, 0.440 mL, 3.15 mmol) is added and the solution is stirred at room temperature under argon atmosphere for 16 h. It is then diluted with dichloromethane (40 mL) and washed with ice cold aqueous citric acid (5 wt %, 30 mL) and water (2×20 mL). The organic phase is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated to dryness. The residue is used as such for the next step.

Cholesterol Derivatised CPG AI

Succinate AH (0.254 g, 0.242 mmol) is dissolved in a mixture of dichloromethane/acetonitrile (3:2, 3 mL). To that solution DMAP (0.0296 g, 0.242 mmol) in acetonitrile (1.25 mL), 2,2′-Dithio-bis(5-nitropyridine) (0.075 g, 0.242 mmol) in acetonitrile/dichloroethane (3:1, 1.25 mL) are added successively. To the resulting solution triphenylphosphine (0.064 g, 0.242 mmol) in acetonitrile (0.6 ml) is added. The reaction mixture turned bright orange in color. The solution is agitated briefly using a wrist-action shaker (5 mins). Long chain alkyl amine-CPG (LCAA-CPG) (1.5 g, 61 mM) is added. The suspension is agitated for 2 h. The CPG is filtered through a sintered funnel and washed with acetonitrile, dichloromethane and ether successively. Unreacted amino groups are masked using acetic anhydride/pyridine. The achieved loading of the CPG is measured by taking UV measurement (37 mM/g).

The synthesis of siRNAs bearing a 5′-12-dodecanoic acid bisdecylamide group (herein referred to as “5′-C32-”) or a 5′-cholesteryl derivative group (herein referred to as “5′-Chol-”) is performed as described in WO 2004/065601, except that, for the cholesteryl derivative, the oxidation step is performed using the Beaucage reagent in order to introduce a phosphorothioate linkage at the 5′-end of the nucleic acid oligomer.

Nucleic acid sequences are represented herein using standard nomenclature, and specifically the abbreviations of Table 1.

TABLE 1 Abbreviations of nucleoside monomers used in nucleic acid sequence representation. It will be understood that these monomers, when present in an oligonucleotide, are mutually linked by 5′-3′- phosphodiester bonds. Abbreviation Nucleoside(s) A adenosine C cytidine G guanosine U uridine N any nucleotide (G, A, C, U, or dT) a 2′-O-methyladenosine c 2′-O-methylcytidine g 2′-O-methylguanosine u 2′-O-methyluridine dT 2′-deoxythymidine s a phosphorothioate linkage

Example 2 siRNA Design and Synthesis

Transcripts

siRNA design was carried out to identify siRNAs targeting the G-alpha q subunit (GNAQ) of a heterotrimeric G gene. Three sets were designed, each specific for a different set of cross species: 1: human and monkey; 2) human, monkey and mouse; and 3) mouse and rat. GNAQ sequences were obtained from the NCBI Refseq collection on Nov. 24, 2008 as follows:

Species GNAQ sequence ref human NM_002072.2 rat NM_031036.1 monkey AB170509.1 mouse NM_008139.5

siRNA Design and Specificity Prediction

The predicted specificity of all possible 19mers was determined for each sequence. The GNAQ siRNAs were used in a comprehensive search against the human, cynomolgous monkey, mouse and rat transcriptomes (defined as the set of NM_ and XM_ records within the NCBI Refseq set for human, mouse and rat, and the ‘core’ sequences from the Unigene clusters for Macaca fascicularis) using the FASTA algorithm. The Python script ‘offtargetFasta.py’ was then used to parse the alignments and generate a score based on the position and number of mismatches between the siRNA and any potential ‘off-target’ transcript. The off-target score is weighted to emphasize differences in the ‘seed’ region of siRNAs, in positions 2-9 from the 5′ end of the molecule. The off-target score is calculated as follows: mismatches between the oligo and the transcript are given penalties. A mismatch in the seed region in positions 2-9 of the oligo is given a penalty of 2.8; mismatches in the putative cleavage sites 10 and 11 are given a penalty of 1.2, and all other mismatches a penalty of 1. The off-target score for each oligo-transcript pair is then calculated by summing the mismatch penalties. The lowest off-target score from all the oligo-transcript pairs is then determined and used in subsequent sorting of oligos. Both siRNA strands were assigned to a category of specificity according to the calculated scores: a score above 3 qualifies as highly specific, equal to 3 as specific, and between 2.2 and 2.8 as moderately specific. In picking which oligos to synthesize, off-target score of the antisense strand was sorted from high to low.

Synthesis of dsRNA

The sense and antisense strands of the dsRNA duplexes were synthesized on a MerMade 192 synthesizer at 1 μmol scale. For each sense and antisense sequence listed in Tables 2a, 3a, and 4a, sequence were modified as follows and as listed in Tables 2d, 3d, and 4d:

-   -   1. In the sense strand, all pyrimidines (U, C) were replaced         with corresponding 2′-O-Methyl bases (2′ O-Methyl C and         2′-O-Methyl U); in the antisense strand, all pyrimidines (U, C)         adjacent to A (UA, CA) were replaced with corresponding         2′-O-Methyl bases (2′ O-Methyl C and 2′-O-Methyl U); a 2 base         dTdT extension at the 3′ end of both strands was introduced.     -   2. In the sense strand, all pyrimidines (U, C) are replaced with         corresponding 2′-O-Methyl bases (2′ O-Methyl C and 2′-O-Methyl         U); in the antisense strand, all pyrimidines (U, C) adjacent to         A (UA, CA) are replaced with corresponding 2′-O-Methyl bases (2′         O-Methyl C and 2′-O-Methyl U); a 2 base dTsdT (including a         phosphorothioate) extension at the 3′ end of both strands was         introduced.     -   3. In the sense strand, all pyrimidines (U, C) are replaced with         corresponding 2′-O-Methyl bases (2′ O-Methyl C and 2′-O-Methyl         U); in the antisense strand, all pyrimidines (U, C) adjacent to         A (UA, CA) and all U adjacent to another U (UU) or G (UG) were         replaced with corresponding 2′-O-Methyl bases (2′ O-Methyl C and         2′-O-Methyl U); a 2 base dTsdT (including a phosphorothioate)         extension at the 3′ end of both strands was introduced.

The synthesis of each strand of the dsRNA used solid supported oligonucleotide synthesis using phosphoramidite chemistry.

Synthesis was performed at 1 umole scale in 96 well plates. The amidite solutions were prepared at 0.1M concentration and ethyl thio tetrazole (0.6M in Acetonitrile) was used as an activator. The synthesized sequences were cleaved and deprotected in 96 well plates, using methylamine in the first step and triethylamine.3HF in the second step. The crude sequences thus obtained were precipitated using acetone: ethanol mix and the pellet were re-suspended in 0.5M sodium acetate buffer. Samples from each sequence were analyzed by LC-MS and the resulting mass data confirmed the identity of the sequences. A selected set of samples were also analyzed by IEX chromatography.

All sequences were purified on AKTA explorer purification system using Source 15Q column. A single peak corresponding to the full length sequence was collected in the eluent and was subsequently analyzed for purity by ion exchange chromatography.

The purified sequences were desalted on a Sephadex G25 column using AKTA purifier. The desalted sequences were analyzed for concentration and purity. For the preparation of duplexes, equimolar amounts of sense and antisense strand were heated in the required buffer (e.g. 1×PBS) at 95° C. for 2-5 minutes and slowly cooled to room temperature. Integrity of the duplex was confirmed by HPLC analysis.

Synthesis and Duplex Annealing for In Vivo Studies

Step 1. Oligonucleotide Synthesis

Oligonucleotides for in vivo studies were synthesized on an AKTA oligopilot synthesizer or on an ABI 394 DNA/RNA synthesizer. Commercially available controlled pore glass solid support (dT-CPG, 500 Å, Prime Synthesis) or the in-house synthesized solid support cholesterol-CPG, AI were used for the synthesis. Other ligand conjugated solid supports amenable to the invention are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/946,873 filed Sep. 21, 2004, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. RNA phosphoramidites and 2′-β-methyl modified RNA phosphoramidites with standard protecting groups (5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-N6-benzoyl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-adenosine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-N4-acetyl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-cytidine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-N2-isobutryl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-guanosine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-uridine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-N6-benzoyl-2′-O-methyl-adenosine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-N4-acetyl-2′-O-methyl-cytidine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-N2-isobutryl-2′-O-methyl-guanosine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-2′-O-methyl-uridine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite and 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-2′-deoxy-thymidine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite) were obtained commercially (e.g. from Pierce Nucleic Acids Technologies and ChemGenes Research).

For the syntheses on AKTAoligopilot synthesizer, all phosphoramidites were used at a concentration of 0.2 M in CH₃CN except for guanosine and 2′-O-methyl-uridine, which were used at 0.2 M concentration in 10% THF/CH₃CN (v/v). Coupling/recycling time of 16 minutes was used for all phosphoramidite couplings. The activator was 5-ethyl-thio-tetrazole (0.75 M, American International Chemicals). For the PO-oxidation, 50 mM iodine in water/pyridine (10:90 v/v) was used and for the PS-oxidation 2% PADS (GL Synthesis) in 2,6-lutidine/CH₃CN (1:1 v/v) was used. For the syntheses on ABI 394 DNA/RNA synthesizer, all phosphoramidites were used at a concentration of 0.15 M in CH₃CN except for 2′-O-methyl-uridine, which was used at 0.15 M concentration in 10% THF/CH₃CN (v/v). Coupling time of 10 minutes was used for all phosphoramidite couplings. The activator was 5-ethyl-thio-tetrazole (0.25 M, Glen Research). For the PO-oxidation, 20 mM iodine in water/pyridine (Glen Research) was used and for the PS-oxidation 0.1M DDTT (AM Chemicals) in pyridine was used.

Step 2. Deprotection of Oligonucleotides

After completion of synthesis, the support was transferred to a 100 mL glass bottle (VWR). The oligonucleotide was cleaved from the support with simultaneous deprotection of base and phosphate groups with 40 mL of a 40% aq. methyl amine (Aldrich) 90 mins at 45° C. The bottle was cooled briefly on ice and then the methylamine was filtered into a new 500 mL bottle. The CPG was washed three times with 40 mL portions of DMSO. The mixture was then cooled on dry ice.

In order to remove the tert-butyldimethylsilyl (TBDMS) groups at the 2′ position, 60 mL triethylamine trihydrofluoride (Et3N-HF) was added to the above mixture. The mixture was heated at 40° C. for 60 minutes. The reaction was then quenched with 220 mL of 50 mM sodium acetate (pH 5.5) and stored in the freezer until purification.

Sequences Synthesized on the ABI DNA/RNA Synthesizer

After completion of synthesis, the support was transferred to a 15 mL tube (VWR). The oligonucleotide was cleaved from the support with simultaneous deprotection of base and phosphate groups with 7 mL of a 40% aq. methyl amine (Aldrich) 15 mins at 65° C. The bottle was cooled briefly on ice and then the methylamine solution was filtered into a 100 mL bottle (VWR). The CPG was washed three times with 7 mL portions of DMSO. The mixture was then cooled on dry ice.

In order to remove the tert-butyldimethylsilyl (TBDMS) groups at the 2′ position, 10.5 mL triethylamine trihydrofluoride (Et3N-HF) was added to the above mixture. The mixture was heated at 60° C. for 15 minutes. The reaction was then quenched with 38.5 mL of 50 mM sodium acetate (pH 5.5) and stored in the freezer until purification.

Step 3. Quantitation of Crude Oligonucleotides

For all samples, a 10 μL aliquot was diluted with 990 μL of deionised nuclease free water (1.0 mL) and the absorbance reading at 260 nm obtained.

Step 4. Purification of Oligonucleotides

Unconjugated Oligonucleotides

The unconjugated samples were purified by HPLC on a TSK-Gel SuperQ-5PW (20) column packed in house (17.3×5 cm) or on a commercially available TSK-Gel SuperQ-5PW column (15×0.215 cm) available from TOSOH Bioscience. The buffers were 20 mM phosphate in 10% CH₃CN, pH 8.5 (buffer A) and 20 mM phosphate, 1.0 M NaBr in 10% CH₃CN, pH 8.5 (buffer B). The flow rate was 50.0 mL/min for the in house packed column and 10.0 ml/min for the commercially obtained column. Wavelengths of 260 and 294 nm were monitored. The fractions containing the full-length oligonucleotides were pooled together, evaporated, and reconstituted to ˜100 mL with deionised water.

Cholesterol-Conjugated Oligonucleotides

The cholesterol conjugated sequences were HPLC purified on RPC-Source15 reverse-phase columns packed in house (17.3×5 cm or 15×2 cm). The buffers were 20 mM NaOAc in 10% CH₃CN (buffer A) and 20 mM NaOAc in 70% CH₃CN (buffer B). The flow rate was 50.0 mL/min for the 17.3×5 cm column and 12.0 ml/min for the 15×2 cm column. Wavelengths of 260 and 284 nm were monitored. The fractions containing the full-length oligonucleotides were pooled, evaporated, and reconstituted to 100 mL with deionised water.

Step 5. Desalting of Purified Oligonucleotides

The purified oligonucleotides were desalted on either an AKTA Explorer or an AKTA Prime system (Amersham Biosciences) using a Sephadex G-25 column packed in house. First, the column was washed with water at a flow rate of 40 mL/min for 20-30 min. The sample was then applied in 40-60 mL fractions. The eluted salt-free fractions were combined, dried, and reconstituted in ˜50 mL of RNase free water.

Step 6. Purity Analysis

Approximately 0.3 OD of each of the desalted oligonucleotides was diluted in water to 300 μL and were analyzed by CGE, ion exchange HPLC, and LC/MS.

Step 7. Duplex Formation

For the preparation of duplexes, equimolar amounts of sense and antisense strand were heated in the required buffer (e.g. 1×PBS) at 95° C. for 5 min and slowly cooled to room temperature. Integrity of the duplex was confirmed by HPLC analysis.

Tables of dsRNA Sequences

Table 2 provides sequences used for design of dsRNA targeting human GNAQ that will cross react with monkey GNAQ. Table 3 provides sequences used for design of dsRNA targeting human GNAQ that will cross react with both monkey and rat GNAQ. Table 4 provides sequences used for design of dsRNA targeting rat GNAQ that will cross react with mouse GNAQ.

Tables 2a, 3a, and 4a following tables provide the sense and antisense strand of GNAQ target sequences. Tables 2b, 3b, and 4b provide exemplary sense and antisense dsRNA strands with a NN 2 base overhang. Tables 2c, 3c, and 4c provide exemplary sense and antisense dsRNA strands with dTdT 2 base overhang. Tables 2d, 3d, and 4d provide sequences of dsRNA that were synthesized, including the dTdT 2 base overhang and modified nucleotides.

TABLE 2a GNAQ (human X monkey): target sequences Numbering for target sequences is based on Human GNAQ NM_002072. Start of SEQ SEQ target ID Target sequence, sense ID Target sequence, antisense sequence NO. strand (5′-3′) NO. strand (5′-3′) 1217 1 CUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUG 74 CAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAG 1213 2 AAUACUAAUUUAUUGCCGU 75 ACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUAUU 1810 3 CAGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGCU 76 AGCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCUG 1590 4 GUCAGGACACAUCGUUCGA 77 UCGAACGAUGUGUCCUGAC 1149 5 CUUCCCUGGUGGGCUAUUG 78 CAAUAGCCCACCAGGGAAG 1971 6 GACACUACAUUACCCUAAU 79 AUUAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUC 1237 7 ACUCUGUGUGAGCGUGUCC 80 GGACACGCUCACACAGAGU 1152 8 CCCUGGUGGGCUAUUGAAG 81 CUUCAAUAGCCCACCAGGG 1216 9 ACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCU 82 AGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGU 1575 10 CUCUCAAAUGAUACAGUCA 83 UGACUGUAUCAUUUGAGAG 1105 11 AGUACAAUCUGGUCUAAUU 84 AAUUAGACCAGAUUGUACU 1407 12 CACAAAGAUAAGACUUGUU 85 AACAAGUCUUAUCUUUGUG 1108 13 ACAAUCUGGUCUAAUUGUG 86 CACAAUUAGACCAGAUUGU 1395 14 CAGUCAUGCACUCACAAAG 87 CUUUGUGAGUGCAUGACUG 1595 15 GACACAUCGUUCGAUUUAA 88 UUAAAUCGAACGAUGUGUC 1992 16 CUGCUACCCAGAACCUUUU 89 AAAAGGUUCUGGGUAGCAG 1809 17 UCAGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGC 90 GCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCUGA 1220 18 AUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGAC 91 GUCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAU 1203 19 CAAUUUGCAUAAUACUAAU 92 AUUAGUAUUAUGCAAAUUG 1322 20 GUACAGUCCCAGCACAUUU 93 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGUAC 1804 21 UACCUUCAGCCAUAGCUUG 94 CAAGCUAUGGCUGAAGGUA 1968 22 ACAGACACUACAUUACCCU 95 AGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUGU 1214 23 AUACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUC 96 GACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUAU 1159 24 GGGCUAUUGAAGAUACACA 97 UGUGUAUCUUCAAUAGCCC 1603 25 GUUCGAUUUAAGCCAUCAU 98 AUGAUGGCUUAAAUCGAAC 1123 26 UGUGCCUCCUAGACACCCG 99 CGGGUGUCUAGGAGGCACA 1233 27 CUGGACUCUGUGUGAGCGU 100 ACGCUCACACAGAGUCCAG 1930 28 ACCCUCUCUUUCAAUUGCA 101 UGCAAUUGAAAGAGAGGGU 1969 29 CAGACACUACAUUACCCUA 102 UAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUG 1219 30 AAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGA 103 UCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUU 1241 31 UGUGUGAGCGUGUCCACAG 104 CUGUGGACACGCUCACACA 1153 32 CCUGGUGGGCUAUUGAAGA 105 UCUUCAAUAGCCCACCAGG 1805 33 ACCUUCAGCCAUAGCUUGA 106 UCAAGCUAUGGCUGAAGGU 1312 34 GGAUGCUGAAGUACAGUCC 107 GGACUGUACUUCAGCAUCC 1546 35 AUCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUGG 108 CCAAGAAUGGAACUAGGAU 1547 36 UCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUGGU 109 ACCAAGAAUGGAACUAGGA 1103 37 GGAGUACAAUCUGGUCUAA 110 UUAGACCAGAUUGUACUCC 1334 38 CACAUUUCCUCUCUAUCUU 111 AAGAUAGAGAGGAAAUGUG 1255 39 CACAGAGUUUGUAGUAAAU 112 AUUUACUACAAACUCUGUG 1967 40 AACAGACACUACAUUACCC 113 GGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUGUU 1391 41 UUCUCAGUCAUGCACUCAC 114 GUGAGUGCAUGACUGAGAA 1124 42 GUGCCUCCUAGACACCCGC 115 GCGGGUGUCUAGGAGGCAC 1612 43 AAGCCAUCAUCAGCUUAAU 116 AUUAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUU 1933 44 CUCUCUUUCAAUUGCAGAU 117 AUCUGCAAUUGAAAGAGAG 1078 45 ACACCAUCCUCCAGUUGAA 118 UUCAACUGGAGGAUGGUGU 1545 46 UAUCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUG 119 CAAGAAUGGAACUAGGAUA 1109 47 CAAUCUGGUCUAAUUGUGC 120 GCACAAUUAGACCAGAUUG 1398 48 UCAUGCACUCACAAAGAUA 121 UAUCUUUGUGAGUGCAUGA 1970 49 AGACACUACAUUACCCUAA 122 UUAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCU 1173 50 ACACAAGAGGGACUGUAUU 123 AAUACAGUCCCUCUUGUGU 1313 51 GAUGCUGAAGUACAGUCCC 124 GGGACUGUACUUCAGCAUC 1811 52 AGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGCUC 125 GAGCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCU 1862 53 CACAGGAGUCCUUUCUUUU 126 AAAAGAAAGGACUCCUGUG 1600 54 AUCGUUCGAUUUAAGCCAU 127 AUGGCUUAAAUCGAACGAU 1618 55 UCAUCAGCUUAAUUUAAGU 128 ACUUAAAUUAAGCUGAUGA 1332 56 AGCACAUUUCCUCUCUAUC 129 GAUAGAGAGGAAAUGUGCU 1157 57 GUGGGCUAUUGAAGAUACA 130 UGUAUCUUCAAUAGCCCAC 888 58 AUCAUGUAUUCCCAUCUAG 131 CUAGAUGGGAAUACAUGAU 1855 59 AAAGACACACAGGAGUCCU 132 AGGACUCCUGUGUGUCUUU 1579 60 CAAAUGAUACAGUCAGGAC 133 GUCCUGACUGUAUCAUUUG 805 61 UUAGAACAAUUAUCACAUA 134 UAUGUGAUAAUUGUUCUAA 1554 62 UCCAUUCUUGGUCAAGUUU 135 AAACUUGACCAAGAAUGGA 1113 63 CUGGUCUAAUUGUGCCUCC 136 GGAGGCACAAUUAGACCAG 1174 64 CACAAGAGGGACUGUAUUU 137 AAAUACAGUCCCUCUUGUG 1735 65 UCUUGUCUCACUUUGGACU 138 AGUCCAAAGUGAGACAAGA 1450 66 UUUUCUAUGGAGCAAAACA 139 UGUUUUGCUCCAUAGAAAA 1285 67 AUUUAAACUAUUCAGAGGA 140 UCCUCUGAAUAGUUUAAAU 804 68 UUUAGAACAAUUAUCACAU 141 AUGUGAUAAUUGUUCUAAA 1866 69 GGAGUCCUUUCUUUUGAAA 142 UUUCAAAAGAAAGGACUCC 1610 70 UUAAGCCAUCAUCAGCUUA 143 UAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUUAA 1117 71 UCUAAUUGUGCCUCCUAGA 144 UCUAGGAGGCACAAUUAGA 1320 72 AAGUACAGUCCCAGCACAU 145 AUGUGCUGGGACUGUACUU 1317 73 CUGAAGUACAGUCCCAGCA 146 UGCUGGGACUGUACUUCAG

TABLE 2b GNAQ (human and monkey): sense and antisense sequences with 2 base overhangs; Numbering for target sequences is based on Human GNAQ NM_002072. Start of target SEQ ID NO SEQUENCE (5′-3′) Strand sequence 147 CUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGNN sense 1217 148 CAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGNN antis 1217 149 AAUACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUNN sense 1213 150 ACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUAUUNN antis 1213 151 CAGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGCUNN sense 1810 152 AGCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCUGNN antis 1810 153 GUCAGGACACAUCGUUCGANN sense 1590 154 UCGAACGAUGUGUCCUGACNN antis 1590 155 CUUCCCUGGUGGGCUAUUGNN sense 1149 156 CAAUAGCCCACCAGGGAAGNN antis 1149 157 GACACUACAUUACCCUAAUNN sense 1971 158 AUUAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCNN antis 1971 159 ACUCUGUGUGAGCGUGUCCNN sense 1237 160 GGACACGCUCACACAGAGUNN antis 1237 161 CCCUGGUGGGCUAUUGAAGNN sense 1152 162 CUUCAAUAGCCCACCAGGGNN antis 1152 163 ACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUNN sense 1216 164 AGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUNN antis 1216 165 CUCUCAAAUGAUACAGUCANN sense 1575 166 UGACUGUAUCAUUUGAGAGNN antis 1575 167 AGUACAAUCUGGUCUAAUUNN sense 1105 168 AAUUAGACCAGAUUGUACUNN antis 1105 169 CACAAAGAUAAGACUUGUUNN sense 1407 170 AACAAGUCUUAUCUUUGUGNN antis 1407 171 ACAAUCUGGUCUAAUUGUGNN sense 1108 172 CACAAUUAGACCAGAUUGUNN antis 1108 173 CAGUCAUGCACUCACAAAGNN sense 1395 174 CUUUGUGAGUGCAUGACUGNN antis 1395 175 GACACAUCGUUCGAUUUAANN sense 1595 176 UUAAAUCGAACGAUGUGUCNN antis 1595 177 CUGCUACCCAGAACCUUUUNN sense 1992 178 AAAAGGUUCUGGGUAGCAGNN antis 1992 179 UCAGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGCNN sense 1809 180 GCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCUGANN antis 1809 181 AUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGACNN sense 1220 182 GUCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUNN antis 1220 183 CAAUUUGCAUAAUACUAAUNN sense 1203 184 AUUAGUAUUAUGCAAAUUGNN antis 1203 185 GUACAGUCCCAGCACAUUUNN sense 1322 186 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGUACNN antis 1322 187 UACCUUCAGCCAUAGCUUGNN sense 1804 188 CAAGCUAUGGCUGAAGGUANN antis 1804 189 ACAGACACUACAUUACCCUNN sense 1968 190 AGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUGUNN antis 1968 191 AUACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCNN sense 1214 192 GACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUAUNN antis 1214 193 GGGCUAUUGAAGAUACACANN sense 1159 194 UGUGUAUCUUCAAUAGCCCNN antis 1159 195 GUUCGAUUUAAGCCAUCAUNN sense 1603 196 AUGAUGGCUUAAAUCGAACNN antis 1603 197 UGUGCCUCCUAGACACCCGNN sense 1123 198 CGGGUGUCUAGGAGGCACANN antis 1123 199 CUGGACUCUGUGUGAGCGUNN sense 1233 200 ACGCUCACACAGAGUCCAGNN antis 1233 201 ACCCUCUCUUUCAAUUGCANN sense 1930 202 UGCAAUUGAAAGAGAGGGUNN antis 1930 203 CAGACACUACAUUACCCUANN sense 1969 204 UAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUGNN antis 1969 205 AAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGANN sense 1219 206 UCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUNN antis 1219 207 UGUGUGAGCGUGUCCACAGNN sense 1241 208 CUGUGGACACGCUCACACANN antis 1241 209 CCUGGUGGGCUAUUGAAGANN sense 1153 210 UCUUCAAUAGCCCACCAGGNN antis 1153 211 ACCUUCAGCCAUAGCUUGANN sense 1805 212 UCAAGCUAUGGCUGAAGGUNN antis 1805 213 GGAUGCUGAAGUACAGUCCNN sense 1312 214 GGACUGUACUUCAGCAUCCNN antis 1312 215 AUCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUGGNN sense 1546 216 CCAAGAAUGGAACUAGGAUNN antis 1546 217 UCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUGGUNN sense 1547 218 ACCAAGAAUGGAACUAGGANN antis 1547 219 GGAGUACAAUCUGGUCUAANN sense 1103 220 UUAGACCAGAUUGUACUCCNN antis 1103 221 CACAUUUCCUCUCUAUCUUNN sense 1334 222 AAGAUAGAGAGGAAAUGUGNN antis 1334 223 CACAGAGUUUGUAGUAAAUNN sense 1255 224 AUUUACUACAAACUCUGUGNN antis 1255 225 AACAGACACUACAUUACCCNN sense 1967 226 GGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUGUUNN antis 1967 227 UUCUCAGUCAUGCACUCACNN sense 1391 228 GUGAGUGCAUGACUGAGAANN antis 1391 229 GUGCCUCCUAGACACCCGCNN sense 1124 230 GCGGGUGUCUAGGAGGCACNN antis 1124 231 AAGCCAUCAUCAGCUUAAUNN sense 1612 232 AUUAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUUNN antis 1612 233 CUCUCUUUCAAUUGCAGAUNN sense 1933 234 AUCUGCAAUUGAAAGAGAGNN antis 1933 235 ACACCAUCCUCCAGUUGAANN sense 1078 236 UUCAACUGGAGGAUGGUGUNN antis 1078 237 UAUCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUGNN sense 1545 238 CAAGAAUGGAACUAGGAUANN antis 1545 239 CAAUCUGGUCUAAUUGUGCNN sense 1109 240 GCACAAUUAGACCAGAUUGNN antis 1109 241 UCAUGCACUCACAAAGAUANN sense 1398 242 UAUCUUUGUGAGUGCAUGANN antis 1398 243 AGACACUACAUUACCCUAANN sense 1970 244 UUAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUNN antis 1970 245 ACACAAGAGGGACUGUAUUNN sense 1173 246 AAUACAGUCCCUCUUGUGUNN antis 1173 247 GAUGCUGAAGUACAGUCCCNN sense 1313 248 GGGACUGUACUUCAGCAUCNN antis 1313 249 AGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGCUCNN sense 1811 250 GAGCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCUNN antis 1811 251 CACAGGAGUCCUUUCUUUUNN sense 1862 252 AAAAGAAAGGACUCCUGUGNN antis 1862 253 AUCGUUCGAUUUAAGCCAUNN sense 1600 254 AUGGCUUAAAUCGAACGAUNN antis 1600 255 UCAUCAGCUUAAUUUAAGUNN sense 1618 256 ACUUAAAUUAAGCUGAUGANN antis 1618 257 AGCACAUUUCCUCUCUAUCNN sense 1332 258 GAUAGAGAGGAAAUGUGCUNN antis 1332 259 GUGGGCUAUUGAAGAUACANN sense 1157 260 UGUAUCUUCAAUAGCCCACNN antis 1157 261 AUCAUGUAUUCCCAUCUAGNN sense 888 262 CUAGAUGGGAAUACAUGAUNN antis 888 263 AAAGACACACAGGAGUCCUNN sense 1855 264 AGGACUCCUGUGUGUCUUUNN antis 1855 265 CAAAUGAUACAGUCAGGACNN sense 1579 266 GUCCUGACUGUAUCAUUUGNN antis 1579 267 UUAGAACAAUUAUCACAUANN sense 805 268 UAUGUGAUAAUUGUUCUAANN antis 805 269 UCCAUUCUUGGUCAAGUUUNN sense 1554 270 AAACUUGACCAAGAAUGGANN antis 1554 271 CUGGUCUAAUUGUGCCUCCNN sense 1113 272 GGAGGCACAAUUAGACCAGNN antis 1113 273 CACAAGAGGGACUGUAUUUNN sense 1174 274 AAAUACAGUCCCUCUUGUGNN antis 1174 275 UCUUGUCUCACUUUGGACUNN sense 1735 276 AGUCCAAAGUGAGACAAGANN antis 1735 277 UUUUCUAUGGAGCAAAACANN sense 1450 278 UGUUUUGCUCCAUAGAAAANN antis 1450 279 AUUUAAACUAUUCAGAGGANN sense 1285 280 UCCUCUGAAUAGUUUAAAUNN antis 1285 281 UUUAGAACAAUUAUCACAUNN sense 804 282 AUGUGAUAAUUGUUCUAAANN antis 804 283 GGAGUCCUUUCUUUUGAAANN sense 1866 284 UUUCAAAAGAAAGGACUCCNN antis 1866 285 UUAAGCCAUCAUCAGCUUANN sense 1610 286 UAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUUAANN antis 1610 287 UCUAAUUGUGCCUCCUAGANN sense 1117 288 UCUAGGAGGCACAAUUAGANN antis 1117 289 AAGUACAGUCCCAGCACAUNN sense 1320 290 AUGUGCUGGGACUGUACUUNN antis 1320 291 CUGAAGUACAGUCCCAGCANN sense 1317 292 UGCUGGGACUGUACUUCAGNN antis 1317

TABLE 2c GNAQ (human and monkey): sense and antisense sequences with dTdT overhangs Numbering for target sequences is based on Human GNAQ NM_002072 Start of target SEQ ID NO SEQUENCE (5′-3′) Strand sequence 293 CUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGdTdT sense 1217 294 CAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGdTdT antis 1217 295 AAUACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUdTdT sense 1213 296 ACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUAUUdTdT antis 1213 297 CAGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGCUdTdT sense 1810 298 AGCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCUGdTdT antis 1810 299 GUCAGGACACAUCGUUCGAdTdT sense 1590 300 UCGAACGAUGUGUCCUGACdTdT antis 1590 301 CUUCCCUGGUGGGCUAUUGdTdT sense 1149 302 CAAUAGCCCACCAGGGAAGdTdT antis 1149 303 GACACUACAUUACCCUAAUdTdT sense 1971 304 AUUAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCdTdT antis 1971 305 ACUCUGUGUGAGCGUGUCCdTdT sense 1237 306 GGACACGCUCACACAGAGUdTdT antis 1237 307 CCCUGGUGGGCUAUUGAAGdTdT sense 1152 308 CUUCAAUAGCCCACCAGGGdTdT antis 1152 309 ACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUdTdT sense 1216 310 AGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUdTdT antis 1216 311 CUCUCAAAUGAUACAGUCAdTdT sense 1575 312 UGACUGUAUCAUUUGAGAGdTdT antis 1575 313 AGUACAAUCUGGUCUAAUUdTdT sense 1105 314 AAUUAGACCAGAUUGUACUdTdT antis 1105 315 CACAAAGAUAAGACUUGUUdTdT sense 1407 316 AACAAGUCUUAUCUUUGUGdTdT antis 1407 317 ACAAUCUGGUCUAAUUGUGdTdT sense 1108 318 CACAAUUAGACCAGAUUGUdTdT antis 1108 319 CAGUCAUGCACUCACAAAGdTdT sense 1395 320 CUUUGUGAGUGCAUGACUGdTdT antis 1395 321 GACACAUCGUUCGAUUUAAdTdT sense 1595 322 UUAAAUCGAACGAUGUGUCdTdT antis 1595 323 CUGCUACCCAGAACCUUUUdTdT sense 1992 324 AAAAGGUUCUGGGUAGCAGdTdT antis 1992 325 UCAGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGCdTdT sense 1809 326 GCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCUGAdTdT antis 1809 327 AUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGACdTdT sense 1220 328 GUCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUdTdT antis 1220 329 CAAUUUGCAUAAUACUAAUdTdT sense 1203 330 AUUAGUAUUAUGCAAAUUGdTdT antis 1203 331 GUACAGUCCCAGCACAUUUdTdT sense 1322 332 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGUACdTdT antis 1322 333 UACCUUCAGCCAUAGCUUGdTdT sense 1804 334 CAAGCUAUGGCUGAAGGUAdTdT antis 1804 335 ACAGACACUACAUUACCCUdTdT sense 1968 336 AGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUGUdTdT antis 1968 337 AUACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCdTdT sense 1214 338 GACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUAUdTdT antis 1214 339 GGGCUAUUGAAGAUACACAdTdT sense 1159 340 UGUGUAUCUUCAAUAGCCCdTdT antis 1159 341 GUUCGAUUUAAGCCAUCAUdTdT sense 1603 342 AUGAUGGCUUAAAUCGAACdTdT antis 1603 343 UGUGCCUCCUAGACACCCGdTdT sense 1123 344 CGGGUGUCUAGGAGGCACAdTdT antis 1123 345 CUGGACUCUGUGUGAGCGUdTdT sense 1233 346 ACGCUCACACAGAGUCCAGdTdT antis 1233 347 ACCCUCUCUUUCAAUUGCAdTdT sense 1930 348 UGCAAUUGAAAGAGAGGGUdTdT antis 1930 349 CAGACACUACAUUACCCUAdTdT sense 1969 350 UAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUGdTdT antis 1969 351 AAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGAdTdT sense 1219 352 UCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUdTdT antis 1219 353 UGUGUGAGCGUGUCCACAGdTdT sense 1241 354 CUGUGGACACGCUCACACAdTdT antis 1241 355 CCUGGUGGGCUAUUGAAGAdTdT sense 1153 356 UCUUCAAUAGCCCACCAGGdTdT antis 1153 357 ACCUUCAGCCAUAGCUUGAdTdT sense 1805 358 UCAAGCUAUGGCUGAAGGUdTdT antis 1805 359 GGAUGCUGAAGUACAGUCCdTdT sense 1312 360 GGACUGUACUUCAGCAUCCdTdT antis 1312 361 AUCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUGGdTdT sense 1546 362 CCAAGAAUGGAACUAGGAUdTdT antis 1546 363 UCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUGGUdTdT sense 1547 364 ACCAAGAAUGGAACUAGGAdTdT antis 1547 365 GGAGUACAAUCUGGUCUAAdTdT sense 1103 366 UUAGACCAGAUUGUACUCCdTdT antis 1103 367 CACAUUUCCUCUCUAUCUUdTdT sense 1334 368 AAGAUAGAGAGGAAAUGUGdTdT antis 1334 369 CACAGAGUUUGUAGUAAAUdTdT sense 1255 370 AUUUACUACAAACUCUGUGdTdT antis 1255 371 AACAGACACUACAUUACCCdTdT sense 1967 372 GGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUGUUdTdT antis 1967 373 UUCUCAGUCAUGCACUCACdTdT sense 1391 374 GUGAGUGCAUGACUGAGAAdTdT antis 1391 375 GUGCCUCCUAGACACCCGCdTdT sense 1124 376 GCGGGUGUCUAGGAGGCACdTdT antis 1124 377 AAGCCAUCAUCAGCUUAAUdTdT sense 1612 378 AUUAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUUdTdT antis 1612 379 CUCUCUUUCAAUUGCAGAUdTdT sense 1933 380 AUCUGCAAUUGAAAGAGAGdTdT antis 1933 381 ACACCAUCCUCCAGUUGAAdTdT sense 1078 382 UUCAACUGGAGGAUGGUGUdTdT antis 1078 383 UAUCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUGdTdT sense 1545 384 CAAGAAUGGAACUAGGAUAdTdT antis 1545 385 CAAUCUGGUCUAAUUGUGCdTdT sense 1109 386 GCACAAUUAGACCAGAUUGdTdT antis 1109 387 UCAUGCACUCACAAAGAUAdTdT sense 1398 388 UAUCUUUGUGAGUGCAUGAdTdT antis 1398 389 AGACACUACAUUACCCUAAdTdT sense 1970 390 UUAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUdTdT antis 1970 391 ACACAAGAGGGACUGUAUUdTdT sense 1173 392 AAUACAGUCCCUCUUGUGUdTdT antis 1173 393 GAUGCUGAAGUACAGUCCCdTdT sense 1313 394 GGGACUGUACUUCAGCAUCdTdT antis 1313 395 AGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGCUCdTdT sense 1811 396 GAGCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCUdTdT antis 1811 397 CACAGGAGUCCUUUCUUUUdTdT sense 1862 398 AAAAGAAAGGACUCCUGUGdTdT antis 1862 399 AUCGUUCGAUUUAAGCCAUdTdT sense 1600 400 AUGGCUUAAAUCGAACGAUdTdT antis 1600 401 UCAUCAGCUUAAUUUAAGUdTdT sense 1618 402 ACUUAAAUUAAGCUGAUGAdTdT antis 1618 403 AGCACAUUUCCUCUCUAUCdTdT sense 1332 404 GAUAGAGAGGAAAUGUGCUdTdT antis 1332 405 GUGGGCUAUUGAAGAUACAdTdT sense 1157 406 UGUAUCUUCAAUAGCCCACdTdT antis 1157 407 AUCAUGUAUUCCCAUCUAGdTdT sense 888 408 CUAGAUGGGAAUACAUGAUdTdT antis 888 409 AAAGACACACAGGAGUCCUdTdT sense 1855 410 AGGACUCCUGUGUGUCUUUdTdT antis 1855 411 CAAAUGAUACAGUCAGGACdTdT sense 1579 412 GUCCUGACUGUAUCAUUUGdTdT antis 1579 413 UUAGAACAAUUAUCACAUAdTdT sense 805 414 UAUGUGAUAAUUGUUCUAAdTdT antis 805 415 UCCAUUCUUGGUCAAGUUUdTdT sense 1554 416 AAACUUGACCAAGAAUGGAdTdT antis 1554 417 CUGGUCUAAUUGUGCCUCCdTdT sense 1113 418 GGAGGCACAAUUAGACCAGdTdT antis 1113 419 CACAAGAGGGACUGUAUUUdTdT sense 1174 420 AAAUACAGUCCCUCUUGUGdTdT antis 1174 421 UCUUGUCUCACUUUGGACUdTdT sense 1735 422 AGUCCAAAGUGAGACAAGAdTdT antis 1735 423 UUUUCUAUGGAGCAAAACAdTdT sense 1450 424 UGUUUUGCUCCAUAGAAAAdTdT antis 1450 425 AUUUAAACUAUUCAGAGGAdTdT sense 1285 426 UCCUCUGAAUAGUUUAAAUdTdT antis 1285 427 UUUAGAACAAUUAUCACAUdTdT sense 804 428 AUGUGAUAAUUGUUCUAAAdTdT antis 804 429 GGAGUCCUUUCUUUUGAAAdTdT sense 1866 430 UUUCAAAAGAAAGGACUCCdTdT antis 1866 431 UUAAGCCAUCAUCAGCUUAdTdT sense 1610 432 UAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUUAAdTdT antis 1610 433 UCUAAUUGUGCCUCCUAGAdTdT sense 1117 434 UCUAGGAGGCACAAUUAGAdTdT antis 1117 435 AAGUACAGUCCCAGCACAUdTdT sense 1320 436 AUGUGCUGGGACUGUACUUdTdT antis 1320 437 CUGAAGUACAGUCCCAGCAdTdT sense 1317 438 UGCUGGGACUGUACUUCAGdTdT antis 1317

TABLE 2d GNAQ (human and monkey): modified sense and antisense strands Numbering for target sequences is based on Human GNAQ NM_002072. Start of target SEQUENCE (5′-3′) Strand sequence SEQ ID NO: Modifications: Sense strand - all pyrimidines (U, C) are 2′OMe; antisense strand - pyrimidines adjacent to A (UA, CA) are 2′Ome; 3′ end is dTdT cuAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGdTdT sense 1217 439 cAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGdTdT antis 1217 440 AAuAcuAAuuuAuuGccGudTdT sense 1213 441 ACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAUUdTdT antis 1213 442 cAGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcudTdT sense 1810 443 AGcAAUcAAGCuAUGGCUGdTdT antis 1810 444 GucAGGAcAcAucGuucGAdTdT sense 1590 445 UCGAACGAUGUGUCCUGACdTdT antis 1590 446 cuucccuGGuGGGcuAuuGdTdT sense 1149 447 cAAuAGCCcACcAGGGAAGdTdT antis 1149 448 GAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAAudTdT sense 1971 449 AUuAGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCdTdT antis 1971 450 AcucuGuGuGAGcGuGuccdTdT sense 1237 451 GGAcACGCUcAcAcAGAGUdTdT antis 1237 452 cccuGGuGGGcuAuuGAAGdTdT sense 1152 453 CUUcAAuAGCCcACcAGGGdTdT antis 1152 454 AcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccudTdT sense 1216 455 AGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGUdTdT antis 1216 456 cucucAAAuGAuAcAGucAdTdT sense 1575 457 UGACUGuAUcAUUUGAGAGdTdT antis 1575 458 AGuAcAAucuGGucuAAuudTdT sense 1105 459 AAUuAGACcAGAUUGuACUdTdT antis 1105 460 cAcAAAGAuAAGAcuuGuudTdT sense 1407 461 AAcAAGUCUuAUCUUUGUGdTdT antis 1407 462 AcAAucuGGucuAAuuGuGdTdT sense 1108 463 cAcAAUuAGACcAGAUUGUdTdT antis 1108 464 cAGucAuGcAcucAcAAAGdTdT sense 1395 465 CUUUGUGAGUGcAUGACUGdTdT antis 1395 466 GAcAcAucGuucGAuuuAAdTdT sense 1595 467 UuAAAUCGAACGAUGUGUCdTdT antis 1595 468 cuGcuAcccAGAAccuuuudTdT sense 1992 469 AAAAGGUUCUGGGuAGcAGdTdT antis 1992 470 ucAGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcdTdT sense 1809 471 GcAAUcAAGCuAUGGCUGAdTdT antis 1809 472 AuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAcdTdT sense 1220 473 GUCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUdTdT antis 1220 474 cAAuuuGcAuAAuAcuAAudTdT sense 1203 475 AUuAGuAUuAUGcAAAUUGdTdT antis 1203 476 GuAcAGucccAGcAcAuuudTdT sense 1322 477 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGuACdTdT antis 1322 478 uAccuucAGccAuAGcuuGdTdT sense 1804 479 cAAGCuAUGGCUGAAGGuAdTdT antis 1804 480 AcAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccudTdT sense 1968 481 AGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUGUdTdT antis 1968 482 AuAcuAAuuuAuuGccGucdTdT sense 1214 483 GACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAUdTdT antis 1214 484 GGGcuAuuGAAGAuAcAcAdTdT sense 1159 485 UGUGuAUCUUcAAuAGCCCdTdT antis 1159 486 GuucGAuuuAAGccAucAudTdT sense 1603 487 AUGAUGGCUuAAAUCGAACdTdT antis 1603 488 uGuGccuccuAGAcAcccGdTdT sense 1123 489 CGGGUGUCuAGGAGGcAcAdTdT antis 1123 490 cuGGAcucuGuGuGAGcGudTdT sense 1233 491 ACGCUcAcAcAGAGUCcAGdTdT antis 1233 492 AcccucucuuucAAuuGcAdTdT sense 1930 493 UGcAAUUGAAAGAGAGGGUdTdT antis 1930 494 cAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAdTdT sense 1969 495 uAGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUGdTdT antis 1969 496 AAuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAdTdT sense 1219 497 UCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUUdTdT antis 1219 498 uGuGuGAGcGuGuccAcAGdTdT sense 1241 499 CUGUGGAcACGCUcAcAcAdTdT antis 1241 500 ccuGGuGGGcuAuuGAAGAdTdT sense 1153 501 UCUUcAAuAGCCcACcAGGdTdT antis 1153 502 AccuucAGccAuAGcuuGAdTdT sense 1805 503 UcAAGCuAUGGCUGAAGGUdTdT antis 1805 504 GGAuGcuGAAGuAcAGuccdTdT sense 1312 505 GGACUGuACUUcAGcAUCCdTdT antis 1312 506 AuccuAGuuccAuucuuGGdTdT sense 1546 507 CcAAGAAUGGAACuAGGAUdTdT antis 1546 508 uccuAGuuccAuucuuGGudTdT sense 1547 509 ACcAAGAAUGGAACuAGGAdTdT antis 1547 510 GGAGuAcAAucuGGucuAAdTdT sense 1103 511 UuAGACcAGAUUGuACUCCdTdT antis 1103 512 cAcAuuuccucucuAucuudTdT sense 1334 513 AAGAuAGAGAGGAAAUGUGdTdT antis 1334 514 cAcAGAGuuuGuAGuAAAudTdT sense 1255 515 AUUuACuAcAAACUCUGUGdTdT antis 1255 516 AAcAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccdTdT sense 1967 517 GGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUGUUdTdT antis 1967 518 uucucAGucAuGcAcucAcdTdT sense 1391 519 GUGAGUGcAUGACUGAGAAdTdT antis 1391 520 GuGccuccuAGAcAcccGcdTdT sense 1124 521 GCGGGUGUCuAGGAGGcACdTdT antis 1124 522 AAGccAucAucAGcuuAAudTdT sense 1612 523 AUuAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUUdTdT antis 1612 524 cucucuuucAAuuGcAGAudTdT sense 1933 525 AUCUGcAAUUGAAAGAGAGdTdT antis 1933 526 AcAccAuccuccAGuuGAAdTdT sense 1078 527 UUcAACUGGAGGAUGGUGUdTdT antis 1078 528 uAuccuAGuuccAuucuuGdTdT sense 1545 529 cAAGAAUGGAACuAGGAuAdTdT antis 1545 530 cAAucuGGucuAAuuGuGcdTdT sense 1109 531 GcAcAAUuAGACcAGAUUGdTdT antis 1109 532 ucAuGcAcucAcAAAGAuAdTdT sense 1398 533 uAUCUUUGUGAGUGcAUGAdTdT antis 1398 534 AGAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAAdTdT sense 1970 535 UuAGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUdTdT antis 1970 536 AcAcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuudTdT sense 1173 537 AAuAcAGUCCCUCUUGUGUdTdT antis 1173 538 GAuGcuGAAGuAcAGucccdTdT sense 1313 539 GGGACUGuACUUcAGcAUCdTdT antis 1313 540 AGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcucdTdT sense 1811 541 GAGcAAUcAAGCuAUGGCUdTdT antis 1811 542 cAcAGGAGuccuuucuuuudTdT sense 1862 543 AAAAGAAAGGACUCCUGUGdTdT antis 1862 544 AucGuucGAuuuAAGccAudTdT sense 1600 545 AUGGCUuAAAUCGAACGAUdTdT antis 1600 546 ucAucAGcuuAAuuuAAGudTdT sense 1618 547 ACUuAAAUuAAGCUGAUGAdTdT antis 1618 548 AGcAcAuuuccucucuAucdTdT sense 1332 549 GAuAGAGAGGAAAUGUGCUdTdT antis 1332 550 GuGGGcuAuuGAAGAuAcAdTdT sense 1157 551 UGuAUCUUcAAuAGCCcACdTdT antis 1157 552 AucAuGuAuucccAucuAGdTdT sense 888 553 CuAGAUGGGAAuAcAUGAUdTdT antis 888 554 AAAGAcAcAcAGGAGuccudTdT sense 1855 555 AGGACUCCUGUGUGUCUUUdTdT antis 1855 556 cAAAuGAuAcAGucAGGAcdTdT sense 1579 557 GUCCUGACUGuAUcAUUUGdTdT antis 1579 558 uuAGAAcAAuuAucAcAuAdTdT sense 805 559 uAUGUGAuAAUUGUUCuAAdTdT antis 805 560 uccAuucuuGGucAAGuuudTdT sense 1554 561 AAACUUGACcAAGAAUGGAdTdT antis 1554 562 cuGGucuAAuuGuGccuccdTdT sense 1113 563 GGAGGcAcAAUuAGACcAGdTdT antis 1113 564 cAcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuuudTdT sense 1174 565 AAAuAcAGUCCCUCUUGUGdTdT antis 1174 566 ucuuGucucAcuuuGGAcudTdT sense 1735 567 AGUCcAAAGUGAGAcAAGAdTdT antis 1735 568 uuuucuAuGGAGcAAAAcAdTdT sense 1450 569 UGUUUUGCUCcAuAGAAAAdTdT antis 1450 570 AuuuAAAcuAuucAGAGGAdTdT sense 1285 571 UCCUCUGAAuAGUUuAAAUdTdT antis 1285 572 uuuAGAAcAAuuAucAcAudTdT sense 804 573 AUGUGAuAAUUGUUCuAAAdTdT antis 804 574 GGAGuccuuucuuuuGAAAdTdT sense 1866 575 UUUcAAAAGAAAGGACUCCdTdT antis 1866 576 uuAAGccAucAucAGcuuAdTdT sense 1610 577 uAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUuAAdTdT antis 1610 578 ucuAAuuGuGccuccuAGAdTdT sense 1117 579 UCuAGGAGGcAcAAUuAGAdTdT antis 1117 580 AAGuAcAGucccAGcAcAudTdT sense 1320 581 AUGUGCUGGGACUGuACUUdTdT antis 1320 582 cuGAAGuAcAGucccAGcAdTdT sense 1317 583 UGCUGGGACUGuACUUcAGdTdT antis 1317 584 Modifications: Sense strand - all pyrimidines (U, C)are 2′OMe; antisense strand - pyrimidines adjacent to A (UA, CA) are 2′Ome; 3′ end is thio (dTsdT) cuAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGdTsdT sense 1217 585 cAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGdTsdT antis 1217 586 AAuAcuAAuuuAuuGccGudTsdT sense 1213 587 ACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAUUdTsdT antis 1213 588 cAGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcudTsdT sense 1810 589 AGcAAUcAAGCuAUGGCUGdTsdT antis 1810 590 GucAGGAcAcAucGuucGAdTsdT sense 1590 591 UCGAACGAUGUGUCCUGACdTsdT antis 1590 592 cuucccuGGuGGGcuAuuGdTsdT sense 1149 593 cAAuAGCCcACcAGGGAAGdTsdT antis 1149 594 GAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAAudTsdT sense 1971 595 AUuAGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCdTsdT antis 1971 596 AcucuGuGuGAGcGuGuccdTsdT sense 1237 597 GGAcACGCUcAcAcAGAGUdTsdT antis 1237 598 cccuGGuGGGcuAuuGAAGdTsdT sense 1152 599 CUUcAAuAGCCcACcAGGGdTsdT antis 1152 600 AcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccudTsdT sense 1216 601 AGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGUdTsdT antis 1216 602 cucucAAAuGAuAcAGucAdTsdT sense 1575 603 UGACUGuAUcAUUUGAGAGdTsdT antis 1575 604 AGuAcAAucuGGucuAAuudTsdT sense 1105 605 AAUuAGACcAGAUUGuACUdTsdT antis 1105 606 cAcAAAGAuAAGAcuuGuudTsdT sense 1407 607 AAcAAGUCUuAUCUUUGUGdTsdT antis 1407 608 AcAAucuGGucuAAuuGuGdTsdT sense 1108 609 cAcAAUuAGACcAGAUUGUdTsdT antis 1108 610 cAGucAuGcAcucAcAAAGdTsdT sense 1395 611 CUUUGUGAGUGcAUGACUGdTsdT antis 1395 612 GAcAcAucGuucGAuuuAAdTsdT sense 1595 613 UuAAAUCGAACGAUGUGUCdTsdT antis 1595 614 cuGcuAcccAGAAccuuuudTsdT sense 1992 615 AAAAGGUUCUGGGuAGcAGdTsdT antis 1992 616 ucAGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcdTsdT sense 1809 617 GcAAUcAAGCuAUGGCUGAdTsdT antis 1809 618 AuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAcdTsdT sense 1220 619 GUCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUdTsdT antis 1220 620 cAAuuuGcAuAAuAcuAAudTsdT sense 1203 621 AUuAGuAUuAUGcAAAUUGdTsdT antis 1203 622 GuAcAGucccAGcAcAuuudTsdT sense 1322 623 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGuACdTsdT antis 1322 624 uAccuucAGccAuAGcuuGdTsdT sense 1804 625 cAAGCuAUGGCUGAAGGuAdTsdT antis 1804 626 AcAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccudTsdT sense 1968 627 AGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUGUdTsdT antis 1968 628 AuAcuAAuuuAuuGccGucdTsdT sense 1214 629 GACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAUdTsdT antis 1214 630 GGGcuAuuGAAGAuAcAcAdTsdT sense 1159 631 UGUGuAUCUUcAAuAGCCCdTsdT antis 1159 632 GuucGAuuuAAGccAucAudTsdT sense 1603 633 AUGAUGGCUuAAAUCGAACdTsdT antis 1603 634 uGuGccuccuAGAcAcccGdTsdT sense 1123 635 CGGGUGUCuAGGAGGcAcAdTsdT antis 1123 636 cuGGAcucuGuGuGAGcGudTsdT sense 1233 637 ACGCUcAcAcAGAGUCcAGdTsdT antis 1233 638 AcccucucuuucAAuuGcAdTsdT sense 1930 639 UGcAAUUGAAAGAGAGGGUdTsdT antis 1930 640 cAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAdTsdT sense 1969 641 uAGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUGdTsdT antis 1969 642 AAuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAdTsdT sense 1219 643 UCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUUdTsdT antis 1219 644 uGuGuGAGcGuGuccAcAGdTsdT sense 1241 645 CUGUGGAcACGCUcAcAcAdTsdT antis 1241 646 ccuGGuGGGcuAuuGAAGAdTsdT sense 1153 647 UCUUcAAuAGCCcACcAGGdTsdT antis 1153 648 AccuucAGccAuAGcuuGAdTsdT sense 1805 649 UcAAGCuAUGGCUGAAGGUdTsdT antis 1805 650 GGAuGcuGAAGuAcAGuccdTsdT sense 1312 651 GGACUGuACUUcAGcAUCCdTsdT antis 1312 652 AuccuAGuuccAuucuuGGdTsdT sense 1546 653 CcAAGAAUGGAACuAGGAUdTsdT antis 1546 654 uccuAGuuccAuucuuGGudTsdT sense 1547 655 ACcAAGAAUGGAACuAGGAdTsdT antis 1547 656 GGAGuAcAAucuGGucuAAdTsdT sense 1103 657 UuAGACcAGAUUGuACUCCdTsdT antis 1103 658 cAcAuuuccucucuAucuudTsdT sense 1334 659 AAGAuAGAGAGGAAAUGUGdTsdT antis 1334 660 cAcAGAGuuuGuAGuAAAudTsdT sense 1255 661 AUUuACuAcAAACUCUGUGdTsdT antis 1255 662 AAcAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccdTsdT sense 1967 663 GGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUGUUdTsdT antis 1967 664 uucucAGucAuGcAcucAcdTsdT sense 1391 665 GUGAGUGcAUGACUGAGAAdTsdT antis 1391 666 GuGccuccuAGAcAcccGcdTsdT sense 1124 667 GCGGGUGUCuAGGAGGcACdTsdT antis 1124 668 AAGccAucAucAGcuuAAudTsdT sense 1612 669 AUuAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUUdTsdT antis 1612 670 cucucuuucAAuuGcAGAudTsdT sense 1933 671 AUCUGcAAUUGAAAGAGAGdTsdT antis 1933 672 AcAccAuccuccAGuuGAAdTsdT sense 1078 673 UUcAACUGGAGGAUGGUGUdTsdT antis 1078 674 uAuccuAGuuccAuucuuGdTsdT sense 1545 675 cAAGAAUGGAACuAGGAuAdTsdT antis 1545 676 cAAucuGGucuAAuuGuGcdTsdT sense 1109 677 GcAcAAUuAGACcAGAUUGdTsdT antis 1109 678 ucAuGcAcucAcAAAGAuAdTsdT sense 1398 679 uAUCUUUGUGAGUGcAUGAdTsdT antis 1398 680 AGAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAAdTsdT sense 1970 681 UuAGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUdTsdT antis 1970 682 AcAcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuudTsdT sense 1173 683 AAuAcAGUCCCUCUUGUGUdTsdT antis 1173 684 GAuGcuGAAGuAcAGucccdTsdT sense 1313 685 GGGACUGuACUUcAGcAUCdTsdT antis 1313 686 AGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcucdTsdT sense 1811 687 GAGcAAUcAAGCuAUGGCUdTsdT antis 1811 688 cAcAGGAGuccuuucuuuudTsdT sense 1862 689 AAAAGAAAGGACUCCUGUGdTsdT antis 1862 690 AucGuucGAuuuAAGccAudTsdT sense 1600 691 AUGGCUuAAAUCGAACGAUdTsdT antis 1600 692 ucAucAGcuuAAuuuAAGudTsdT sense 1618 693 ACUuAAAUuAAGCUGAUGAdTsdT antis 1618 694 AGcAcAuuuccucucuAucdTsdT sense 1332 695 GAuAGAGAGGAAAUGUGCUdTsdT antis 1332 696 GuGGGcuAuuGAAGAuAcAdTsdT sense 1157 697 UGuAUCUUcAAuAGCCcACdTsdT antis 1157 698 AucAuGuAuucccAucuAGdTsdT sense 888 699 CuAGAUGGGAAuAcAUGAUdTsdT antis 888 700 AAAGAcAcAcAGGAGuccudTsdT sense 1855 701 AGGACUCCUGUGUGUCUUUdTsdT antis 1855 702 cAAAuGAuAcAGucAGGAcdTsdT sense 1579 703 GUCCUGACUGuAUcAUUUGdTsdT antis 1579 704 uuAGAAcAAuuAucAcAuAdTsdT sense 805 705 uAUGUGAuAAUUGUUCuAAdTsdT antis 805 706 uccAuucuuGGucAAGuuudTsdT sense 1554 707 AAACUUGACcAAGAAUGGAdTsdT antis 1554 708 cuGGucuAAuuGuGccuccdTsdT sense 1113 709 GGAGGcAcAAUuAGACcAGdTsdT antis 1113 710 cAcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuuudTsdT sense 1174 711 AAAuAcAGUCCCUCUUGUGdTsdT antis 1174 712 ucuuGucucAcuuuGGAcudTsdT sense 1735 713 AGUCcAAAGUGAGAcAAGAdTsdT antis 1735 714 uuuucuAuGGAGcAAAAcAdTsdT sense 1450 715 UGUUUUGCUCcAuAGAAAAdTsdT antis 1450 716 AuuuAAAcuAuucAGAGGAdTsdT sense 1285 717 UCCUCUGAAuAGUUuAAAUdTsdT antis 1285 718 uuuAGAAcAAuuAucAcAudTsdT sense 804 719 AUGUGAuAAUUGUUCuAAAdTsdT antis 804 720 GGAGuccuuucuuuuGAAAdTsdT sense 1866 721 UUUcAAAAGAAAGGACUCCdTsdT antis 1866 722 uuAAGccAucAucAGcuuAdTsdT sense 1610 723 uAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUuAAdTsdT antis 1610 724 ucuAAuuGuGccuccuAGAdTsdT sense 1117 725 UCuAGGAGGcAcAAUuAGAdTsdT antis 1117 726 AAGuAcAGucccAGcAcAudTsdT sense 1320 727 AUGUGCUGGGACUGuACUUdTsdT antis 1320 728 cuGAAGuAcAGucccAGcAdTsdT sense 1317 729 UGCUGGGACUGuACUUcAGdTsdT antis 1317 730 Modifications: Sense strand - all pyrimidines are 2′OMe; antisense strand - pyrimidines adjacent to A (UA, CA) + U adjacent to another U (UU) or G (UG) are 2′Ome; 3′ end is thio (dTsdT). cuAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGdTsdT sense 1217 731 cAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGdTsdT antis 1217 732 AAuAcuAAuuuAuuGccGudTsdT sense 1213 733 ACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAuUdTsdT antis 1213 734 cAGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcudTsdT sense 1810 735 AGcAAUcAAGCuAuGGCuGdTsdT antis 1810 736 GucAGGAcAcAucGuucGAdTsdT sense 1590 737 UCGAACGAuGuGUCCuGACdTsdT antis 1590 738 cuucccuGGuGGGcuAuuGdTsdT sense 1149 739 cAAuAGCCcACcAGGGAAGdTsdT antis 1149 740 GAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAAudTsdT sense 1971 741 AUuAGGGuAAuGuAGuGUCdTsdT antis 1971 742 AcucuGuGuGAGcGuGuccdTsdT sense 1237 743 GGAcACGCUcAcAcAGAGUdTsdT antis 1237 744 cccuGGuGGGcuAuuGAAGdTsdT sense 1152 745 CuUcAAuAGCCcACcAGGGdTsdT antis 1152 746 AcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccudTsdT sense 1216 747 AGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGUdTsdT antis 1216 748 cucucAAAuGAuAcAGucAdTsdT sense 1575 749 uGACuGuAUcAuUuGAGAGdTsdT antis 1575 750 AGuAcAAucuGGucuAAuudTsdT sense 1105 751 AAUuAGACcAGAuuGuACUdTsdT antis 1105 752 cAcAAAGAuAAGAcuuGuudTsdT sense 1407 753 AAcAAGUCUuAUCuUuGuGdTsdT antis 1407 754 AcAAucuGGucuAAuuGuGdTsdT sense 1108 755 cAcAAUuAGACcAGAuuGUdTsdT antis 1108 756 cAGucAuGcAcucAcAAAGdTsdT sense 1395 757 CuUuGuGAGuGcAuGACuGdTsdT antis 1395 758 GAcAcAucGuucGAuuuAAdTsdT sense 1595 759 UuAAAUCGAACGAuGuGUCdTsdT antis 1595 760 cuGcuAcccAGAAccuuuudTsdT sense 1992 761 AAAAGGuUCuGGGuAGcAGdTsdT antis 1992 762 ucAGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcdTsdT sense 1809 763 GcAAUcAAGCuAuGGCuGAdTsdT antis 1809 764 AuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAcdTsdT sense 1220 765 GUCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUdTsdT antis 1220 766 cAAuuuGcAuAAuAcuAAudTsdT sense 1203 767 AUuAGuAUuAuGcAAAuuGdTsdT antis 1203 768 GuAcAGucccAGcAcAuuudTsdT sense 1322 769 AAAuGuGCuGGGACuGuACdTsdT antis 1322 770 uAccuucAGccAuAGcuuGdTsdT sense 1804 771 cAAGCuAuGGCuGAAGGuAdTsdT antis 1804 772 AcAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccudTsdT sense 1968 773 AGGGuAAuGuAGuGUCuGUdTsdT antis 1968 774 AuAcuAAuuuAuuGccGucdTsdT sense 1214 775 GACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAUdTsdT antis 1214 776 GGGcuAuuGAAGAuAcAcAdTsdT sense 1159 777 uGuGuAUCuUcAAuAGCCCdTsdT antis 1159 778 GuucGAuuuAAGccAucAudTsdT sense 1603 779 AuGAuGGCUuAAAUCGAACdTsdT antis 1603 780 uGuGccuccuAGAcAcccGdTsdT sense 1123 781 CGGGuGUCuAGGAGGcAcAdTsdT antis 1123 782 cuGGAcucuGuGuGAGcGudTsdT sense 1233 783 ACGCUcAcAcAGAGUCcAGdTsdT antis 1233 784 AcccucucuuucAAuuGcAdTsdT sense 1930 785 uGcAAuuGAAAGAGAGGGUdTsdT antis 1930 786 cAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAdTsdT sense 1969 787 uAGGGuAAuGuAGuGUCuGdTsdT antis 1969 788 AAuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAdTsdT sense 1219 789 UCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAuUdTsdT antis 1219 790 uGuGuGAGcGuGuccAcAGdTsdT sense 1241 791 CuGuGGAcACGCUcAcAcAdTsdT antis 1241 792 ccuGGuGGGcuAuuGAAGAdTsdT sense 1153 793 UCuUcAAuAGCCcACcAGGdTsdT antis 1153 794 AccuucAGccAuAGcuuGAdTsdT sense 1805 795 UcAAGCuAuGGCuGAAGGUdTsdT antis 1805 796 GGAuGcuGAAGuAcAGuccdTsdT sense 1312 797 GGACuGuACuUcAGcAUCCdTsdT antis 1312 798 AuccuAGuuccAuucuuGGdTsdT sense 1546 799 CcAAGAAuGGAACuAGGAUdTsdT antis 1546 800 uccuAGuuccAuucuuGGudTsdT sense 1547 801 ACcAAGAAuGGAACuAGGAdTsdT antis 1547 802 GGAGuAcAAucuGGucuAAdTsdT sense 1103 803 UuAGACcAGAuuGuACUCCdTsdT antis 1103 804 cAcAuuuccucucuAucuudTsdT sense 1334 805 AAGAuAGAGAGGAAAuGuGdTsdT antis 1334 806 cAcAGAGuuuGuAGuAAAudTsdT sense 1255 807 AuUuACuAcAAACUCuGuGdTsdT antis 1255 808 AAcAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccdTsdT sense 1967 809 GGGuAAuGuAGuGUCuGuUdTsdT antis 1967 810 uucucAGucAuGcAcucAcdTsdT sense 1391 811 GuGAGuGcAuGACuGAGAAdTsdT antis 1391 812 GuGccuccuAGAcAcccGcdTsdT sense 1124 813 GCGGGuGUCuAGGAGGcACdTsdT antis 1124 814 AAGccAucAucAGcuuAAudTsdT sense 1612 815 AUuAAGCuGAuGAuGGCuUdTsdT antis 1612 816 cucucuuucAAuuGcAGAudTsdT sense 1933 817 AUCuGcAAuuGAAAGAGAGdTsdT antis 1933 818 AcAccAuccuccAGuuGAAdTsdT sense 1078 819 uUcAACuGGAGGAuGGuGUdTsdT antis 1078 820 uAuccuAGuuccAuucuuGdTsdT sense 1545 821 cAAGAAuGGAACuAGGAuAdTsdT antis 1545 822 cAAucuGGucuAAuuGuGcdTsdT sense 1109 823 GcAcAAUuAGACcAGAuuGdTsdT antis 1109 824 ucAuGcAcucAcAAAGAuAdTsdT sense 1398 825 uAUCuUuGuGAGuGcAuGAdTsdT antis 1398 826 AGAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAAdTsdT sense 1970 827 UuAGGGuAAuGuAGuGUCUdTsdT antis 1970 828 AcAcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuudTsdT sense 1173 829 AAuAcAGUCCCUCuuGuGUdTsdT antis 1173 830 GAuGcuGAAGuAcAGucccdTsdT sense 1313 831 GGGACuGuACuUcAGcAUCdTsdT antis 1313 832 AGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcucdTsdT sense 1811 833 GAGcAAUcAAGCuAuGGCUdTsdT antis 1811 834 cAcAGGAGuccuuucuuuudTsdT sense 1862 835 AAAAGAAAGGACUCCuGuGdTsdT antis 1862 836 AucGuucGAuuuAAGccAudTsdT sense 1600 837 AuGGCUuAAAUCGAACGAUdTsdT antis 1600 838 ucAucAGcuuAAuuuAAGudTsdT sense 1618 839 ACUuAAAUuAAGCuGAuGAdTsdT antis 1618 840 AGcAcAuuuccucucuAucdTsdT sense 1332 841 GAuAGAGAGGAAAuGuGCUdTsdT antis 1332 842 GuGGGcuAuuGAAGAuAcAdTsdT sense 1157 843 uGuAUCuUcAAuAGCCcACdTsdT antis 1157 844 AucAuGuAuucccAucuAGdTsdT sense 888 845 CuAGAuGGGAAuAcAuGAUdTsdT antis 888 846 AAAGAcAcAcAGGAGuccudTsdT sense 1855 847 AGGACUCCuGuGuGUCuUUdTsdT antis 1855 848 cAAAuGAuAcAGucAGGAcdTsdT sense 1579 849 GUCCuGACuGuAUcAuUuGdTsdT antis 1579 850 uuAGAAcAAuuAucAcAuAdTsdT sense 805 851 uAuGuGAuAAuuGuUCuAAdTsdT antis 805 852 uccAuucuuGGucAAGuuudTsdT sense 1554 853 AAACuuGACcAAGAAuGGAdTsdT antis 1554 854 cuGGucuAAuuGuGccuccdTsdT sense 1113 855 GGAGGcAcAAUuAGACcAGdTsdT antis 1113 856 cAcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuuudTsdT sense 1174 857 AAAuAcAGUCCCUCuuGuGdTsdT antis 1174 858 ucuuGucucAcuuuGGAcudTsdT sense 1735 859 AGUCcAAAGuGAGAcAAGAdTsdT antis 1735 860 uuuucuAuGGAGcAAAAcAdTsdT sense 1450 861 uGuUuuGCUCcAuAGAAAAdTsdT antis 1450 862 AuuuAAAcuAuucAGAGGAdTsdT sense 1285 863 UCCUCuGAAuAGuUuAAAUdTsdT antis 1285 864 uuuAGAAcAAuuAucAcAudTsdT sense 804 865 AuGuGAuAAuuGuUCuAAAdTsdT antis 804 866 GGAGuccuuucuuuuGAAAdTsdT sense 1866 867 uUUcAAAAGAAAGGACUCCdTsdT antis 1866 868 uuAAGccAucAucAGcuuAdTsdT sense 1610 869 uAAGCuGAuGAuGGCUuAAdTsdT antis 1610 870 ucuAAuuGuGccuccuAGAdTsdT sense 1117 871 UCuAGGAGGcAcAAUuAGAdTsdT antis 1117 872 AAGuAcAGucccAGcAcAudTsdT sense 1320 873 AuGuGCuGGGACuGuACuUdTsdT antis 1320 874 cuGAAGuAcAGucccAGcAdTsdT sense 1317 875 uGCuGGGACuGuACuUcAGdTsdT antis 1317 876

TABLE 3a GNAQ (Human, monkey and mouse): target sequences Numbering for target sequence is Human GNAQ NM_002072. Start of SEQ SEQ target ID Target sequence, ID Target sequence, sequence NO. sense strand (5′-3′) NO. antisense strand (5′-3′) 1215 877 UACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCC 888 GGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUA 1217 878 CUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUG 889 CAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAG 1216 879 ACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCU 890 AGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGU 1322 880 GUACAGUCCCAGCACAUUU 891 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGUAC 1220 881 AUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGAC 892 GUCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAU 1265 882 GUAGUAAAUAUUAUGAUUU 893 AAAUCAUAAUAUUUACUAC 1218 883 UAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGG 894 CCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUA 1175 884 ACAAGAGGGACUGUAUUUC 895 GAAAUACAGUCCCUCUUGU 1223 885 UAUUGCCGUCCUGGACUCU 896 AGAGUCCAGGACGGCAAUA 1319 886 GAAGUACAGUCCCAGCACA 897 UGUGCUGGGACUGUACUUC 1285 887 AUUUAAACUAUUCAGAGGA 898 UCCUCUGAAUAGUUUAAAU

TABLE 3b GNAQ (Human, monkey and mouse): sense and antisense sequences with 2 base overhangs Numbering for target sequence is Human GNAQ NM_002072. SEQ Start of ID target NO SEQUENCE (5′-3′) Strand sequence 899 UACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCNN sense 1215 900 GGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUANN antis 1215 901 CUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGNN sense 1217 902 CAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGNN antis 1217 903 ACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUNN sense 1216 904 AGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUNN antis 1216 905 GUACAGUCCCAGCACAUUUNN sense 1322 906 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGUACNN antis 1322 907 AUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGACNN sense 1220 908 GUCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUNN antis 1220 909 GUAGUAAAUAUUAUGAUUUNN sense 1265 910 AAAUCAUAAUAUUUACUACNN antis 1265 911 UAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGNN sense 1218 912 CCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUANN antis 1218 913 ACAAGAGGGACUGUAUUUCNN sense 1175 914 GAAAUACAGUCCCUCUUGUNN antis 1175 915 UAUUGCCGUCCUGGACUCUNN sense 1223 916 AGAGUCCAGGACGGCAAUANN antis 1223 917 GAAGUACAGUCCCAGCACANN sense 1319 918 UGUGCUGGGACUGUACUUCNN antis 1319 919 AUUUAAACUAUUCAGAGGANN sense 1285 920 UCCUCUGAAUAGUUUAAAUNN antis 1285

TABLE 3c GNAQ (Human, monkey and mouse): sense and antisense sequences with dTdT overhangs Numbering for target sequence is Human GNAQ NM_002072. SEQ Start of ID target NO SEQUENCE (5′-3′) Strand sequence 921 UACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCdTdT sense 1215 922 GGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUAdTdT antis 1215 923 CUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGdTdT sense 1217 924 CAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGdTdT antis 1217 925 ACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUdTdT sense 1216 926 AGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUdTdT antis 1216 927 GUACAGUCCCAGCACAUUUdTdT sense 1322 928 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGUACdTdT antis 1322 929 AUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGACdTdT sense 1220 930 GUCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUdTdT antis 1220 931 GUAGUAAAUAUUAUGAUUUdTdT sense 1265 932 AAAUCAUAAUAUUUACUACdTdT antis 1265 933 UAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGdTdT sense 1218 934 CCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAdTdT antis 1218 935 ACAAGAGGGACUGUAUUUCdTdT sense 1175 936 GAAAUACAGUCCCUCUUGUdTdT antis 1175 937 UAUUGCCGUCCUGGACUCUdTdT sense 1223 938 AGAGUCCAGGACGGCAAUAdTdT antis 1223 939 GAAGUACAGUCCCAGCACAdTdT sense 1319 940 UGUGCUGGGACUGUACUUCdTdT antis 1319 941 AUUUAAACUAUUCAGAGGAdTdT sense 1285 942 UCCUCUGAAUAGUUUAAAUdTdT antis 1285

TABLE 3d GNAQ (Human, monkey and mouse): modified sense and antisense strands Numbering for target sequence is Human GNAQ NM_002072. Start of target SEQUENCE (5′-3′) Strand sequence SEQ ID NO Modifications: Sense strand - all pyrimidines (U, C)are 2′OMe; antisense strand - pyrimidines adjacent to A (UA, CA) are 2′Ome; 3′ end is dTdT uAcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccdTdT sense 1215 943 GGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAdTdT antis 1215 944 cuAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGdTdT sense 1217 945 cAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGdTdT antis 1217 946 AcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccudTdT sense 1216 947 AGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGUdTdT antis 1216 948 GuAcAGucccAGcAcAuuudTdT sense 1322 949 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGuACdTdT antis 1322 950 AuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAcdTdT sense 1220 951 GUCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUdTdT antis 1220 952 GuAGuAAAuAuuAuGAuuudTdT sense 1265 953 AAAUcAuAAuAUUuACuACdTdT antis 1265 954 uAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGGdTdT sense 1218 955 CcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAdTdT antis 1218 956 AcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuuucdTdT sense 1175 957 GAAAuAcAGUCCCUCUUGUdTdT antis 1175 958 uAuuGccGuccuGGAcucudTdT sense 1223 959 AGAGUCcAGGACGGcAAuAdTdT antis 1223 960 GAAGuAcAGucccAGcAcAdTdT sense 1319 961 UGUGCUGGGACUGuACUUCdTdT antis 1319 962 AuuuAAAcuAuucAGAGGAdTdT sense 1285 963 UCCUCUGAAuAGUUuAAAUdTdT antis 1285 964 Modifications: Sense strand - all pyrimidines (U, C) are 2′OMe; antisense strand - pyrimidines adjacent to A (UA, CA) are 2′Ome; 3′ end is thio (dTsdT) uAcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccdTsdT sense 1215 965 GGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAdTsdT antis 1215 966 cuAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGdTsdT sense 1217 967 cAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGdTsdT antis 1217 968 AcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccudTsdT sense 1216 969 AGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGUdTsdT antis 1216 970 GuAcAGucccAGcAcAuuudTsdT sense 1322 971 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGuACdTsdT antis 1322 972 AuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAcdTsdT sense 1220 973 GUCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUdTsdT antis 1220 974 GuAGuAAAuAuuAuGAuuudTsdT sense 1265 975 AAAUcAuAAuAUUuACuACdTsdT antis 1265 976 uAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGGdTsdT sense 1218 977 CcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAdTsdT antis 1218 978 AcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuuucdTsdT sense 1175 979 GAAAuAcAGUCCCUCUUGUdTsdT antis 1175 980 uAuuGccGuccuGGAcucudTsdT sense 1223 981 AGAGUCcAGGACGGcAAuAdTsdT antis 1223 982 GAAGuAcAGucccAGcAcAdTsdT sense 1319 983 UGUGCUGGGACUGuACUUCdTsdT antis 1319 984 AuuuAAAcuAuucAGAGGAdTsdT sense 1285 985 UCCUCUGAAuAGUUuAAAUdTsdT antis 1285 986 Modifications: Sense strand - all pyrimidines are 2′OMe; antisense strand - pyrimidines adjacent to A (UA, CA) + U adjacent to another U (UU) or G (UG) are 2′Ome; 3′ end is thio (dTsdT). uAcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccdTsdT sense 1215 987 GGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAdTsdT antis 1215 988 cuAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGdTsdT sense 1217 989 cAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGdTsdT antis 1217 990 AcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccudTsdT sense 1216 991 AGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGUdTsdT antis 1216 992 GuAcAGucccAGcAcAuuudTsdT sense 1322 993 AAAuGuGCuGGGACuGuACdTsdT antis 1322 994 AuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAcdTsdT sense 1220 995 GUCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUdTsdT antis 1220 996 GuAGuAAAuAuuAuGAuuudTsdT sense 1265 997 AAAUcAuAAuAuUuACuACdTsdT antis 1265 998 uAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGGdTsdT sense 1218 999 CcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAdTsdT antis 1218 1000 AcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuuucdTsdT sense 1175 1001 GAAAuAcAGUCCCUCuuGUdTsdT antis 1175 1002 uAuuGccGuccuGGAcucudTsdT sense 1223 1003 AGAGUCcAGGACGGcAAuAdTsdT antis 1223 1004 GAAGuAcAGucccAGcAcAdTsdT sense 1319 1005 uGuGCuGGGACuGuACuUCdTsdT antis 1319 1006 AuuuAAAcuAuucAGAGGAdTsdT sense 1285 1007 UCCUCuGAAuAGuUuAAAUdTsdT antis 1285 1008

TABLE 4a GNAQ (rat and mouse): target sequences Numbering for target sequences is Rat GNAQ NM_031036. Start of SEQ Target sequence, target SEQ ID Target sequence, ID antisense strand sequence NO. sense strand (5′-3′) NO. (5′-3′) 853 1009 UAUUCCCACCUAGUCGACU 1039 AGUCGACUAGGUGGGAAUA 855 1010 UUCCCACCUAGUCGACUAC 1040 GUAGUCGACUAGGUGGGAA 367 1011 GCUUUUGAGAAUCCAUAUG 1041 CAUAUGGAUUCUCAAAAGC 55 1012 CGGAGGAUCAACGACGAGA 1042 UCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCG 459 1013 AUCUGACUCUACCAAAUAC 1043 GUAUUUGGUAGAGUCAGAU 312 1014 ACACAAUAAGGCUCAUGCA 1044 UGCAUGAGCCUUAUUGUGU 178 1015 AGGAUCAUCCACGGGUCGG 1045 CCGACCCGUGGAUGAUCCU 297 1016 CCCAUACAAGUAUGAACAC 1046 GUGUUCAUACUUGUAUGGG 315 1017 CAAUAAGGCUCAUGCACAA 1047 UUGUGCAUGAGCCUUAUUG 58 1018 AGGAUCAACGACGAGAUCG 1048 CGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCU 324 1019 UCAUGCACAAUUGGUUCGA 1049 UCGAACCAAUUGUGCAUGA 59 1020 GGAUCAACGACGAGAUCGA 1050 UCGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCC 398 1021 AGAGCUUGUGGAAUGAUCC 1051 GGAUCAUUCCACAAGCUCU 57 1022 GAGGAUCAACGACGAGAUC 1052 GAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUC 56 1023 GGAGGAUCAACGACGAGAU 1053 AUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCC 369 1024 UUUUGAGAAUCCAUAUGUA 1054 UACAUAUGGAUUCUCAAAA 45 1025 CAAGGAAGCCCGGAGGAUC 1055 GAUCCUCCGGGCUUCCUUG 460 1026 UCUGACUCUACCAAAUACU 1056 AGUAUUUGGUAGAGUCAGA 97 1027 AAGCGCGACGCCCGCCGGG 1057 CCCGGCGGGCGUCGCGCUU 314 1028 ACAAUAAGGCUCAUGCACA 1058 UGUGCAUGAGCCUUAUUGU 318 1029 UAAGGCUCAUGCACAAUUG 1059 CAAUUGUGCAUGAGCCUUA 50 1030 AAGCCCGGAGGAUCAACGA 1060 UCGUUGAUCCUCCGGGCUU 323 1031 CUCAUGCACAAUUGGUUCG 1061 CGAACCAAUUGUGCAUGAG 327 1032 UGCACAAUUGGUUCGAGAG 1062 CUCUCGAACCAAUUGUGCA 329 1033 CACAAUUGGUUCGAGAGGU 1063 ACCUCUCGAACCAAUUGUG 862 1034 CUAGUCGACUACUUCCCAG 1064 CUGGGAAGUAGUCGACUAG 89 1035 GCAGGGACAAGCGCGACGC 1065 GCGUCGCGCUUGUCCCUGC 371 1036 UUGAGAAUCCAUAUGUAGA 1066 UCUACAUAUGGAUUCUCAA 868 1037 GACUACUUCCCAGAAUAUG 1067 CAUAUUCUGGGAAGUAGUC 62 1038 UCAACGACGAGAUCGAGCG 1068 CGCUCGAUCUCGUCGUUGA

TABLE 4b GNAQ (rat and mouse): sense and antisense sequences with 2 base overhangs Numbering for target sequences is Rat GNAQ NM_031036. Start of target SEQ ID NO SEQUENCE (5′-3′) Type sequence 1069 UAUUCCCACCUAGUCGACUNN sense 853 1070 AGUCGACUAGGUGGGAAUANN antis 853 1071 UUCCCACCUAGUCGACUACNN sense 855 1072 GUAGUCGACUAGGUGGGAANN antis 855 1073 GCUUUUGAGAAUCCAUAUGNN sense 367 1074 CAUAUGGAUUCUCAAAAGCNN antis 367 1075 CGGAGGAUCAACGACGAGANN sense 55 1076 UCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCGNN antis 55 1077 AUCUGACUCUACCAAAUACNN sense 459 1078 GUAUUUGGUAGAGUCAGAUNN antis 459 1079 ACACAAUAAGGCUCAUGCANN sense 312 1080 UGCAUGAGCCUUAUUGUGUNN antis 312 1081 AGGAUCAUCCACGGGUCGGNN sense 178 1082 CCGACCCGUGGAUGAUCCUNN antis 178 1083 CCCAUACAAGUAUGAACACNN sense 297 1084 GUGUUCAUACUUGUAUGGGNN antis 297 1085 CAAUAAGGCUCAUGCACAANN sense 315 1086 UUGUGCAUGAGCCUUAUUGNN antis 315 1087 AGGAUCAACGACGAGAUCGNN sense 58 1088 CGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUNN antis 58 1089 UCAUGCACAAUUGGUUCGANN sense 324 1090 UCGAACCAAUUGUGCAUGANN antis 324 1091 GGAUCAACGACGAGAUCGANN sense 59 1092 UCGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCNN antis 59 1093 AGAGCUUGUGGAAUGAUCCNN sense 398 1094 GGAUCAUUCCACAAGCUCUNN antis 398 1095 GAGGAUCAACGACGAGAUCNN sense 57 1096 GAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCNN antis 57 1097 GGAGGAUCAACGACGAGAUNN sense 56 1098 AUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCNN antis 56 1099 UUUUGAGAAUCCAUAUGUANN sense 369 1100 UACAUAUGGAUUCUCAAAANN antis 369 1101 CAAGGAAGCCCGGAGGAUCNN sense 45 1102 GAUCCUCCGGGCUUCCUUGNN antis 45 1103 UCUGACUCUACCAAAUACUNN sense 460 1104 AGUAUUUGGUAGAGUCAGANN antis 460 1105 AAGCGCGACGCCCGCCGGGNN sense 97 1106 CCCGGCGGGCGUCGCGCUUNN antis 97 1107 ACAAUAAGGCUCAUGCACANN sense 314 1108 UGUGCAUGAGCCUUAUUGUNN antis 314 1109 UAAGGCUCAUGCACAAUUGNN sense 318 1110 CAAUUGUGCAUGAGCCUUANN antis 318 1111 AAGCCCGGAGGAUCAACGANN sense 50 1112 UCGUUGAUCCUCCGGGCUUNN antis 50 1113 CUCAUGCACAAUUGGUUCGNN sense 323 1114 CGAACCAAUUGUGCAUGAGNN antis 323 1115 UGCACAAUUGGUUCGAGAGNN sense 327 1116 CUCUCGAACCAAUUGUGCANN antis 327 1117 CACAAUUGGUUCGAGAGGUNN sense 329 1118 ACCUCUCGAACCAAUUGUGNN antis 329 1119 CUAGUCGACUACUUCCCAGNN sense 862 1120 CUGGGAAGUAGUCGACUAGNN antis 862 1121 GCAGGGACAAGCGCGACGCNN sense 89 1122 GCGUCGCGCUUGUCCCUGCNN antis 89 1123 UUGAGAAUCCAUAUGUAGANN sense 371 1124 UCUACAUAUGGAUUCUCAANN antis 371 1125 GACUACUUCCCAGAAUAUGNN sense 868 1126 CAUAUUCUGGGAAGUAGUCNN antis 868 1127 UCAACGACGAGAUCGAGCGNN sense 62 1128 CGCUCGAUCUCGUCGUUGANN antis 62

TABLE 4c GNAQ (rat and mouse): sense and antisense sequences with dTdT overhangs Numbering for target sequences is Rat GNAQ NM_031036. SEQ Start of ID target NO SEQUENCE (5′-3′) Strand sequence 1129 UAUUCCCACCUAGUCGACUdTdT sense 853 1130 AGUCGACUAGGUGGGAAUAdTdT antis 853 1131 UUCCCACCUAGUCGACUACdTdT sense 855 1132 GUAGUCGACUAGGUGGGAAdTdT antis 855 1133 GCUUUUGAGAAUCCAUAUGdTdT sense 367 1134 CAUAUGGAUUCUCAAAAGCdTdT antis 367 1135 CGGAGGAUCAACGACGAGAdTdT sense 55 1136 UCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCGdTdT antis 55 1137 AUCUGACUCUACCAAAUACdTdT sense 459 1138 GUAUUUGGUAGAGUCAGAUdTdT antis 459 1139 ACACAAUAAGGCUCAUGCAdTdT sense 312 1140 UGCAUGAGCCUUAUUGUGUdTdT antis 312 1141 AGGAUCAUCCACGGGUCGGdTdT sense 178 1142 CCGACCCGUGGAUGAUCCUdTdT antis 178 1143 CCCAUACAAGUAUGAACACdTdT sense 297 1144 GUGUUCAUACUUGUAUGGGdTdT antis 297 1145 CAAUAAGGCUCAUGCACAAdTdT sense 315 1146 UUGUGCAUGAGCCUUAUUGdTdT antis 315 1147 AGGAUCAACGACGAGAUCGdTdT sense 58 1148 CGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUdTdT antis 58 1149 UCAUGCACAAUUGGUUCGAdTdT sense 324 1150 UCGAACCAAUUGUGCAUGAdTdT antis 324 1151 GGAUCAACGACGAGAUCGAdTdT sense 59 1152 UCGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCdTdT antis 59 1153 AGAGCUUGUGGAAUGAUCCdTdT sense 398 1154 GGAUCAUUCCACAAGCUCUdTdT antis 398 1155 GAGGAUCAACGACGAGAUCdTdT sense 57 1156 GAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCdTdT antis 57 1157 GGAGGAUCAACGACGAGAUdTdT sense 56 1158 AUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCdTdT antis 56 1159 UUUUGAGAAUCCAUAUGUAdTdT sense 369 1160 UACAUAUGGAUUCUCAAAAdTdT antis 369 1161 CAAGGAAGCCCGGAGGAUCdTdT sense 45 1162 GAUCCUCCGGGCUUCCUUGdTdT antis 45 1163 UCUGACUCUACCAAAUACUdTdT sense 460 1164 AGUAUUUGGUAGAGUCAGAdTdT antis 460 1165 AAGCGCGACGCCCGCCGGGdTdT sense 97 1166 CCCGGCGGGCGUCGCGCUUdTdT antis 97 1167 ACAAUAAGGCUCAUGCACAdTdT sense 314 1168 UGUGCAUGAGCCUUAUUGUdTdT antis 314 1169 UAAGGCUCAUGCACAAUUGdTdT sense 318 1170 CAAUUGUGCAUGAGCCUUAdTdT antis 318 1171 AAGCCCGGAGGAUCAACGAdTdT sense 50 1172 UCGUUGAUCCUCCGGGCUUdTdT antis 50 1173 CUCAUGCACAAUUGGUUCGdTdT sense 323 1174 CGAACCAAUUGUGCAUGAGdTdT antis 323 1175 UGCACAAUUGGUUCGAGAGdTdT sense 327 1176 CUCUCGAACCAAUUGUGCAdTdT antis 327 1177 CACAAUUGGUUCGAGAGGUdTdT sense 329 1178 ACCUCUCGAACCAAUUGUGdTdT antis 329 1179 CUAGUCGACUACUUCCCAGdTdT sense 862 1180 CUGGGAAGUAGUCGACUAGdTdT antis 862 1181 GCAGGGACAAGCGCGACGCdTdT sense 89 1182 GCGUCGCGCUUGUCCCUGCdTdT antis 89 1183 UUGAGAAUCCAUAUGUAGAdTdT sense 371 1184 UCUACAUAUGGAUUCUCAAdTdT antis 371 1185 GACUACUUCCCAGAAUAUGdTdT sense 868 1186 CAUAUUCUGGGAAGUAGUCdTdT antis 868 1187 UCAACGACGAGAUCGAGCGdTdT sense 62 1188 CGCUCGAUCUCGUCGUUGAdTdT antis 62

TABLE 4d GNAQ dsRNA (rat and mouse): modified sense and antisense strands Numbering for target sequences is Rat GNAQ NM_031036. Start of target SEQUENCE (5′-3′) Strand sequence SEQ ID NO: Modifications: Sense strand - all pyrimidines (U, C)are 2′OMe; antisense strand - pyrimidines adjacent to A (UA, CA) are 2′Ome; 3′ end is dTdT uAuucccAccuAGucGAcudTdT sense 853 1189 AGUCGACuAGGUGGGAAuAdTdT antis 853 1190 uucccAccuAGucGAcuAcdTdT sense 855 1191 GuAGUCGACuAGGUGGGAAdTdT antis 855 1192 GcuuuuGAGAAuccAuAuGdTdT sense 367 1193 cAuAUGGAUUCUcAAAAGCdTdT antis 367 1194 cGGAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAdTdT sense 55 1195 UCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCGdTdT antis 55 1196 AucuGAcucuAccAAAuAcdTdT sense 459 1197 GuAUUUGGuAGAGUcAGAUdTdT antis 459 1198 AcAcAAuAAGGcucAuGcAdTdT sense 312 1199 UGcAUGAGCCUuAUUGUGUdTdT antis 312 1200 AGGAucAuccAcGGGucGGdTdT sense 178 1201 CCGACCCGUGGAUGAUCCUdTdT antis 178 1202 cccAuAcAAGuAuGAAcAcdTdT sense 297 1203 GUGUUcAuACUUGuAUGGGdTdT antis 297 1204 cAAuAAGGcucAuGcAcAAdTdT sense 315 1205 UUGUGcAUGAGCCUuAUUGdTdT antis 315 1206 AGGAucAAcGAcGAGAucGdTdT sense 58 1207 CGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUdTdT antis 58 1208 ucAuGcAcAAuuGGuucGAdTdT sense 324 1209 UCGAACcAAUUGUGcAUGAdTdT antis 324 1210 GGAucAAcGAcGAGAucGAdTdT sense 59 1211 UCGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCdTdT antis 59 1212 AGAGcuuGuGGAAuGAuccdTdT sense 398 1213 GGAUcAUUCcAcAAGCUCUdTdT antis 398 1214 GAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAucdTdT sense 57 1215 GAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCdTdT antis 57 1216 GGAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAudTdT sense 56 1217 AUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCdTdT antis 56 1218 uuuuGAGAAuccAuAuGuAdTdT sense 369 1219 uAcAuAUGGAUUCUcAAAAdTdT antis 369 1220 cAAGGAAGcccGGAGGAucdTdT sense 45 1221 GAUCCUCCGGGCUUCCUUGdTdT antis 45 1222 ucuGAcucuAccAAAuAcudTdT sense 460 1223 AGuAUUUGGuAGAGUcAGAdTdT antis 460 1224 AAGcGcGAcGcccGccGGGdTdT sense 97 1225 CCCGGCGGGCGUCGCGCUUdTdT antis 97 1226 AcAAuAAGGcucAuGcAcAdTdT sense 314 1227 UGUGcAUGAGCCUuAUUGUdTdT antis 314 1228 uAAGGcucAuGcAcAAuuGdTdT sense 318 1229 cAAUUGUGcAUGAGCCUuAdTdT antis 318 1230 AAGcccGGAGGAucAAcGAdTdT sense 50 1231 UCGUUGAUCCUCCGGGCUUdTdT antis 50 1232 cucAuGcAcAAuuGGuucGdTdT sense 323 1233 CGAACcAAUUGUGcAUGAGdTdT antis 323 1234 uGcAcAAuuGGuucGAGAGdTdT sense 327 1235 CUCUCGAACcAAUUGUGcAdTdT antis 327 1236 cAcAAuuGGuucGAGAGGudTdT sense 329 1237 ACCUCUCGAACcAAUUGUGdTdT antis 329 1238 cuAGucGAcuAcuucccAGdTdT sense 862 1239 CUGGGAAGuAGUCGACuAGdTdT antis 862 1240 GcAGGGAcAAGcGcGAcGcdTdT sense 89 1241 GCGUCGCGCUUGUCCCUGCdTdT antis 89 1242 uuGAGAAuccAuAuGuAGAdTdT sense 371 1243 UCuAcAuAUGGAUUCUcAAdTdT antis 371 1244 GAcuAcuucccAGAAuAuGdTdT sense 868 1245 cAuAUUCUGGGAAGuAGUCdTdT antis 868 1246 ucAAcGAcGAGAucGAGcGdTdT sense 62 1247 CGCUCGAUCUCGUCGUUGAdTdT antis 62 1248 Modifications: Sense strand - all pyrimidines (U, C) are 2′OMe; antisense strand - pyrimidines adjacent to A (UA, CA) are 2′Ome; 3′ end is thio (dTsdT) uAuucccAccuAGucGAcudTsdT sense 853 1249 AGUCGACuAGGUGGGAAuAdTsdT antis 853 1250 uucccAccuAGucGAcuAcdTsdT sense 855 1251 GuAGUCGACuAGGUGGGAAdTsdT antis 855 1252 GcuuuuGAGAAuccAuAuGdTsdT sense 367 1253 cAuAUGGAUUCUcAAAAGCdTsdT antis 367 1254 cGGAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAdTsdT sense 55 1255 UCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCGdTsdT antis 55 1256 AucuGAcucuAccAAAuAcdTsdT sense 459 1257 GuAUUUGGuAGAGUcAGAUdTsdT antis 459 1258 AcAcAAuAAGGcucAuGcAdTsdT sense 312 1259 UGcAUGAGCCUuAUUGUGUdTsdT antis 312 1260 AGGAucAuccAcGGGucGGdTsdT sense 178 1261 CCGACCCGUGGAUGAUCCUdTsdT antis 178 1262 cccAuAcAAGuAuGAAcAcdTsdT sense 297 1263 GUGUUcAuACUUGuAUGGGdTsdT antis 297 1264 cAAuAAGGcucAuGcAcAAdTsdT sense 315 1265 UUGUGcAUGAGCCUuAUUGdTsdT antis 315 1266 AGGAucAAcGAcGAGAucGdTsdT sense 58 1267 CGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUdTsdT antis 58 1268 ucAuGcAcAAuuGGuucGAdTsdT sense 324 1269 UCGAACcAAUUGUGcAUGAdTsdT antis 324 1270 GGAucAAcGAcGAGAucGAdTsdT sense 59 1271 UCGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCdTsdT antis 59 1272 AGAGcuuGuGGAAuGAuccdTsdT sense 398 1273 GGAUcAUUCcAcAAGCUCUdTsdT antis 398 1274 GAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAucdTsdT sense 57 1275 GAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCdTsdT antis 57 1276 GGAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAudTsdT sense 56 1277 AUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCdTsdT antis 56 1278 uuuuGAGAAuccAuAuGuAdTsdT sense 369 1279 uAcAuAUGGAUUCUcAAAAdTsdT antis 369 1280 cAAGGAAGcccGGAGGAucdTsdT sense 45 1281 GAUCCUCCGGGCUUCCUUGdTsdT antis 45 1282 ucuGAcucuAccAAAuAcudTsdT sense 460 1283 AGuAUUUGGuAGAGUcAGAdTsdT antis 460 1284 AAGcGcGAcGcccGccGGGdTsdT sense 97 1285 CCCGGCGGGCGUCGCGCUUdTsdT antis 97 1286 AcAAuAAGGcucAuGcAcAdTsdT sense 314 1287 UGUGcAUGAGCCUuAUUGUdTsdT antis 314 1288 uAAGGcucAuGcAcAAuuGdTsdT sense 318 1289 cAAUUGUGcAUGAGCCUuAdTsdT antis 318 1290 AAGcccGGAGGAucAAcGAdTsdT sense 50 1291 UCGUUGAUCCUCCGGGCUUdTsdT antis 50 1292 cucAuGcAcAAuuGGuucGdTsdT sense 323 1293 CGAACcAAUUGUGcAUGAGdTsdT antis 323 1294 uGcAcAAuuGGuucGAGAGdTsdT sense 327 1295 CUCUCGAACcAAUUGUGcAdTsdT antis 327 1296 cAcAAuuGGuucGAGAGGudTsdT sense 329 1297 ACCUCUCGAACcAAUUGUGdTsdT antis 329 1298 cuAGucGAcuAcuucccAGdTsdT sense 862 1299 CUGGGAAGuAGUCGACuAGdTsdT antis 862 1300 GcAGGGAcAAGcGcGAcGcdTsdT sense 89 1301 GCGUCGCGCUUGUCCCUGCdTsdT antis 89 1302 uuGAGAAuccAuAuGuAGAdTsdT sense 371 1303 UCuAcAuAUGGAUUCUcAAdTsdT antis 371 1304 GAcuAcuucccAGAAuAuGdTsdT sense 868 1305 cAuAUUCUGGGAAGuAGUCdTsdT antis 868 1306 ucAAcGAcGAGAucGAGcGdTsdT sense 62 1307 CGCUCGAUCUCGUCGUUGAdTsdT antis 62 1308 Modifications: Sense strand - all pyrimidines are 2′OMe; antisense strand - pyrimidines adjacent to A (UA, CA) + U adjacent to another U (UU) or G (UG) are 2′Ome; 3′ end is thio (dTsdT). uAuucccAccuAGucGAcudTsdT sense 853 1309 AGUCGACuAGGuGGGAAuAdTsdT antis 853 1310 uucccAccuAGucGAcuAcdTsdT sense 855 1311 GuAGUCGACuAGGuGGGAAdTsdT antis 855 1312 GcuuuuGAGAAuccAuAuGdTsdT sense 367 1313 cAuAuGGAuUCUcAAAAGCdTsdT antis 367 1314 cGGAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAdTsdT sense 55 1315 UCUCGUCGuuGAUCCUCCGdTsdT antis 55 1316 AucuGAcucuAccAAAuAcdTsdT sense 459 1317 GuAuUuGGuAGAGUcAGAUdTsdT antis 459 1318 AcAcAAuAAGGcucAuGcAdTsdT sense 312 1319 uGcAuGAGCCUuAuuGuGUdTsdT antis 312 1320 AGGAucAuccAcGGGucGGdTsdT sense 178 1321 CCGACCCGuGGAuGAUCCUdTsdT antis 178 1322 cccAuAcAAGuAuGAAcAcdTsdT sense 297 1323 GuGuUcAuACuuGuAuGGGdTsdT antis 297 1324 cAAuAAGGcucAuGcAcAAdTsdT sense 315 1325 uuGuGcAuGAGCCUuAuuGdTsdT antis 315 1326 AGGAucAAcGAcGAGAucGdTsdT sense 58 1327 CGAUCUCGUCGuuGAUCCUdTsdT antis 58 1328 ucAuGcAcAAuuGGuucGAdTsdT sense 324 1329 UCGAACcAAuuGuGcAuGAdTsdT antis 324 1330 GGAucAAcGAcGAGAucGAdTsdT sense 59 1331 UCGAUCUCGUCGuuGAUCCdTsdT antis 59 1332 AGAGcuuGuGGAAuGAuccdTsdT sense 398 1333 GGAUcAuUCcAcAAGCUCUdTsdT antis 398 1334 GAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAucdTsdT sense 57 1335 GAUCUCGUCGuuGAUCCUCdTsdT antis 57 1336 GGAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAudTsdT sense 56 1337 AUCUCGUCGuuGAUCCUCCdTsdT antis 56 1338 uuuuGAGAAuccAuAuGuAdTsdT sense 369 1339 uAcAuAuGGAuUCUcAAAAdTsdT antis 369 1340 cAAGGAAGcccGGAGGAucdTsdT sense 45 1341 GAUCCUCCGGGCuUCCuuGdTsdT antis 45 1342 ucuGAcucuAccAAAuAcudTsdT sense 460 1343 AGuAuUuGGuAGAGUcAGAdTsdT antis 460 1344 AAGcGcGAcGcccGccGGGdTsdT sense 97 1345 CCCGGCGGGCGUCGCGCuUdTsdT antis 97 1346 AcAAuAAGGcucAuGcAcAdTsdT sense 314 1347 uGuGcAuGAGCCUuAuuGUdTsdT antis 314 1348 uAAGGcucAuGcAcAAuuGdTsdT sense 318 1349 cAAuuGuGcAuGAGCCUuAdTsdT antis 318 1350 AAGcccGGAGGAucAAcGAdTsdT sense 50 1351 UCGuuGAUCCUCCGGGCuUdTsdT antis 50 1352 cucAuGcAcAAuuGGuucGdTsdT sense 323 1353 CGAACcAAuuGuGcAuGAGdTsdT antis 323 1354 uGcAcAAuuGGuucGAGAGdTsdT sense 327 1355 CUCUCGAACcAAuuGuGcAdTsdT antis 327 1356 cAcAAuuGGuucGAGAGGudTsdT sense 329 1357 ACCUCUCGAACcAAuuGuGdTsdT antis 329 1358 cuAGucGAcuAcuucccAGdTsdT sense 862 1359 CuGGGAAGuAGUCGACuAGdTsdT antis 862 1360 GcAGGGAcAAGcGcGAcGcdTsdT sense 89 1361 GCGUCGCGCuuGUCCCuGCdTsdT antis 89 1362 uuGAGAAuccAuAuGuAGAdTsdT sense 371 1363 UCuAcAuAuGGAuUCUcAAdTsdT antis 371 1364 GAcuAcuucccAGAAuAuGdTsdT sense 868 1365 cAuAuUCuGGGAAGuAGUCdTsdT antis 868 1366 ucAAcGAcGAGAucGAGcGdTsdT sense 62 1367 CGCUCGAUCUCGUCGuuGAdTsdT antis 62 1368

Example 3 In Vitro Screening

For in vitro screening, cells expressing GNAQ were utilized. Some exemplary cell lines expressing GNAQ include, but are not limited to, human melanoma cell lines OMM1.3 and MEL 285, and MeI 202. OMM1.3 are liver metastisis cells that include a mutant GNAQ gene. MEL285 are primary uveal melanoma cells that include a WT GNAQ gene. MEL202 are also primary uveal melanoma but include a mutant GNAQ gene. A549 (lung carcinoma) and A375 (malignant melanoma) are cancer cell lines expressing WT GNAQ.

Cells expressing human GNAQ with the activating GNAQ mutation were obtained following the method outlined in PCT publication number WO2008/098208, which is incorporated herein in its entirety for all purposes.

The dsRNAs were screened for in vitro inhibition of the target gene. Tissue culture cells were transfected with the dsRNA. Target gene mRNA levels were assayed using qPCR (real time PCR).

Cell Culture and Transfections:

A549, A375, OMM1.3 and UMEL202 cells were grown to near confluence at 37° C. in an atmosphere of 5% CO₂ in specific medium (ATCC) supplemented with 10% FBS, streptomycin, and glutamine (ATCC) before being released from the plate by trypsinization. Reverse transfection was carried out by adding 5 μl of Opti-MEM to 5 μl of siRNA duplexes (Tables 5-7) per well into a 96-well plate along with 10 μl of Opti-MEM plus 0.2 μl of Lipofectamine RNAiMax per well (Invitrogen, Carlsbad Calif. cat #13778-150) and incubated at room temperature for 15 minutes. 80 μl of complete growth media without antibiotics containing 2×10⁴ cells were then added. Cells were incubated for 24 hours prior to RNA purification. Single dose experiments were performed at either 0.1 nM, 1.0 nM, or and 10.0 nM final duplex concentration and dose response experiments were done with 10, 1.66, 0.27, 0.046, 0.0077, 0.0012, 0.00021, 0.000035 nM of selected duplexes.

TABLE 5 Duplex (dsRNA) names and corresponding sample names Sample name Duplex Name ssRNA name 1 AD-20032 36864 36865 2 AD-20033 36866 36867 3 AD-20034 36868 36869 4 AD-20035 36870 36871 5 AD-20036 36872 36873 6 AD-20037 36874 36875 7 AD-20038 36876 36877 8 AD-20039 36878 36879 9 AD-20040 36880 36881 10 AD-20041 36882 36883 11 AD-20042 36884 36885 12 AD-20043 36886 36887 13 AD-20044 36888 36889 14 AD-20045 36890 36891 15 AD-20046 36892 36893 16 AD-20047 36894 36895 17 AD-20048 36896 36897 18 AD-20049 36898 36899 19 AD-20050 36900 36901 20 AD-20051 36902 36903 21 AD-20052 36904 36905 22 AD-20053 36906 36907 23 AD-20054 36910 36911 24 AD-20055 36912 36913 25 AD-20056 36914 36915 26 AD-20057 36916 36917 27 AD-20058 36918 36919 28 AD-20059 36920 36921 29 AD-20060 36922 36923 30 AD-20061 36924 36925 31 AD-20062 36926 36927 32 AD-20063 36928 36929 33 AD-20064 36930 36931 34 AD-20065 36932 36933 35 AD-20066 36934 36935 36 AD-20067 36936 36937 37 AD-20068 36938 36939 38 AD-20069 36940 36941 39 AD-20070 36942 36943 40 AD-20071 36946 36947 41 AD-20072 36948 36949 42 AD-20073 36950 36951 43 AD-20074 36954 36955 87 AD-20075 36956 36957 44 AD-20076 36958 36959 45 AD-20077 36960 36961 46 AD-20078 36962 36963 47 AD-20079 36964 36965 48 AD-20080 36966 36967 49 AD-20081 36968 36969 50 AD-20082 36970 36971 51 AD-20083 36972 36973 52 AD-20084 36974 36975 53 AD-20085 36976 36977 54 AD-20086 36978 36979 55 AD-20087 36980 36981 56 AD-20088 36982 36983 57 AD-20089 36984 36985 58 AD-20090 36986 36987 59 AD-20091 36988 36989 60 AD-20092 36990 36991 61 AD-20093 36992 36993 62 AD-20094 36994 36995 63 AD-20095 36996 36997 64 AD-20096 36998 36999 65 AD-20097 37000 37001 88 AD-20098 37002 37003 66 AD-20099 37004 37005 67 AD-20100 37006 37007 68 AD-20101 37008 37009 69 AD-20102 37010 37011 89 AD-20103 37012 37013 70 AD-20104 37014 37015 95 AD-20105 37016 37017 71 AD-20106 37018 37019 72 AD-20107 37022 37023 73 AD-20108 37024 37025 74 AD-20109 37026 37027 75 AD-20110 37032 37033 76 AD-20111 37034 37035 77 AD-20112 37036 37037 78 AD-20113 37038 37039 79 AD-20114 37040 37041 80 AD-20115 37042 37043 81 AD-20116 37044 37045 82 AD-20117 37046 37047 83 AD-20118 37048 37049 84 AD-20119 37050 37051 85 AD-20120 37052 37053 86 AD-20121 37054 37055 91 AD-20193 36908 36909 92 AD-20194 36945 36944 93 AD-20195 37020 37021 94 AD-20196 37028 37029 95 AD-20197 37030 37031

TABLE 6 Sequences of dsRNA targeting Human GNAQ (NM_002072.2) (target is position of 5′ base on transcript of NM_002072.2 SEQ SEQ Duplex ID Unmodified sequence ID Modified sequence name Strand Target NO: 5′ to 3′ NO: 5′ to 3′ AD-20032 S 1215 1369 UACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCC 1527 uAcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccdTdT A 1215 1370 GGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUA 1528 GGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAdTdT AD-20033 S 1217 1371 CUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUG 1529 cuAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGdTdT A 1217 1372 CAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAG 1530 cAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGdTdT AD-20034 S 1216 1373 ACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCU 1531 AcuAAuuuAuuGccGuccudTdT A 1216 1374 AGGACGGCAAUAAAUUAGU 1532 AGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAGUdTdT AD-20035 S 1322 1375 GUACAGUCCCAGCACAUUU 1533 GuAcAGucccAGcAcAuuudTdT A 1322 1376 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGUAC 1534 AAAUGUGCUGGGACUGuACdTdT AD-20036 S 1220 1377 AUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGAC 1535 AuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAcdTdT A 1220 1378 GUCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAU 1536 GUCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUdTdT AD-20037 S 1265 1379 GUAGUAAAUAUUAUGAUUU 1537 GuAGuAAAuAuuAuGAuuudTdT A 1265 1380 AAAUCAUAAUAUUUACUAC 1538 AAAUcAuAAuAUUuACuACdTdT AD-20038 S 1218 1381 UAAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGG 1539 uAAuuuAuuGccGuccuGGdTdT A 1218 1382 CCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUUA 1540 CcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUuAdTdT AD-20039 S 1175 1383 ACAAGAGGGACUGUAUUUC 1541 AcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuuucdTdT A 1175 1384 GAAAUACAGUCCCUCUUGU 1542 GAAAuAcAGUCCCUCUUGUdTdT AD-20040 S 1223 1385 UAUUGCCGUCCUGGACUCU 1543 uAuuGccGuccuGGAcucudTdT A 1223 1386 AGAGUCCAGGACGGCAAUA 1544 AGAGUCcAGGACGGcAAuAdTdT AD-20041 S 1319 1387 GAAGUACAGUCCCAGCACA 1545 GAAGuAcAGucccAGcAcAdTdT A 1319 1388 UGUGCUGGGACUGUACUUC 1546 UGUGCUGGGACUGuACUUCdTdT AD-20042 S 1285 1389 AUUUAAACUAUUCAGAGGA 1547 AuuuAAAcuAuucAGAGGAdTdT A 1285 1390 UCCUCUGAAUAGUUUAAAU 1548 UCCUCUGAAuAGUUuAAAUdTdT AD-20043 S 1213 1391 AAUACUAAUUUAUUGCCGU 1549 AAuAcuAAuuuAuuGccGudTdT A 1213 1392 ACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUAUU 1550 ACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAUUdTdT AD-20044 S 1810 1393 CAGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGCU 1551 cAGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcudTdT A 1810 1394 AGCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCUG 1552 AGcAAUcAAGCuAUGGCUGdTdT AD-20045 S 1590 1395 GUCAGGACACAUCGUUCGA 1553 GucAGGAcAcAucGuucGAdTdT A 1590 1396 UCGAACGAUGUGUCCUGAC 1554 UCGAACGAUGUGUCCUGACdTdT AD-20046 S 1149 1397 CUUCCCUGGUGGGCUAUUG 1555 cuucccuGGuGGGcuAuuGdTdT A 1149 1398 CAAUAGCCCACCAGGGAAG 1556 cAAuAGCCcACcAGGGAAGdTdT AD-20047 S 1971 1399 GACACUACAUUACCCUAAU 1557 GAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAAudTdT A 1971 1400 AUUAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUC 1558 AUuAGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCdTdT AD-20048 S 1237 1401 ACUCUGUGUGAGCGUGUCC 1559 AcucuGuGuGAGcGuGuccdTdT A 1237 1402 GGACACGCUCACACAGAGU 1560 GGAcACGCUcAcAcAGAGUdTdT AD-20049 S 1152 1403 CCCUGGUGGGCUAUUGAAG 1561 cccuGGuGGGcuAuuGAAGdTdT A 1152 1404 CUUCAAUAGCCCACCAGGG 1562 CUUcAAuAGCCcACcAGGGdTdT AD-20050 S 1575 1405 CUCUCAAAUGAUACAGUCA 1563 cucucAAAuGAuAcAGucAdTdT A 1575 1406 UGACUGUAUCAUUUGAGAG 1564 UGACUGuAUcAUUUGAGAGdTdT AD-20051 S 1105 1407 AGUACAAUCUGGUCUAAUU 1565 AGuAcAAucuGGucuAAuudTdT A 1105 1408 AAUUAGACCAGAUUGUACU 1566 AAUuAGACcAGAUUGuACUdTdT AD-20052 S 1407 1409 CACAAAGAUAAGACUUGUU 1567 cAcAAAGAuAAGAcuuGuudTdT A 1407 1410 AACAAGUCUUAUCUUUGUG 1568 AAcAAGUCUuAUCUUUGUGdTdT AD-20053 S 1108 1411 ACAAUCUGGUCUAAUUGUG 1569 AcAAucuGGucuAAuuGuGdTdT A 1108 1412 CACAAUUAGACCAGAUUGU 1570 cAcAAUuAGACcAGAUUGUdTdT AD-20193 S 1395 1413 CAGUCAUGCACUCACAAAG 1571 cAGucAuGcAcucAcAAAGdTdT A 1395 1414 CUUUGUGAGUGCAUGACUG 1572 CUUUGUGAGUGcAUGACUGdTdT AD-20054 S 1595 1415 GACACAUCGUUCGAUUUAA 1573 GAcAcAucGuucGAuuuAAdTdT A 1595 1416 UUAAAUCGAACGAUGUGUC 1574 UuAAAUCGAACGAUGUGUCdTdT AD-20055 S 1992 1417 CUGCUACCCAGAACCUUUU 1575 cuGcuAcccAGAAccuuuudTdT A 1992 1418 AAAAGGUUCUGGGUAGCAG 1576 AAAAGGUUCUGGGuAGcAGdTdT AD-20056 S 1809 1419 UCAGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGC 1577 ucAGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcdTdT A 1809 1420 GCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCUGA 1578 GcAAUcAAGCuAUGGCUGAdTdT AD-20057 S 1203 1421 CAAUUUGCAUAAUACUAAU 1579 cAAuuuGcAuAAuAcuAAudTdT A 1203 1422 AUUAGUAUUAUGCAAAUUG 1580 AUuAGuAUuAUGcAAAUUGdTdT AD-20058 S 1804 1423 UACCUUCAGCCAUAGCUUG 1581 uAccuucAGccAuAGcuuGdTdT A 1804 1424 CAAGCUAUGGCUGAAGGUA 1582 cAAGCuAUGGCUGAAGGuAdTdT AD-20059 S 1968 1425 ACAGACACUACAUUACCCU 1583 AcAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccudTdT A 1968 1426 AGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUGU 1584 AGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUGUdTdT AD-20060 S 1214 1427 AUACUAAUUUAUUGCCGUC 1585 AuAcuAAuuuAuuGccGucdTdT A 1214 1428 GACGGCAAUAAAUUAGUAU 1586 GACGGcAAuAAAUuAGuAUdTdT AD-20061 S 1159 1429 GGGCUAUUGAAGAUACACA 1587 GGGcuAuuGAAGAuAcAcAdTdT A 1159 1430 UGUGUAUCUUCAAUAGCCC 1588 UGUGuAUCUUcAAuAGCCCdTdT AD-20062 S 1603 1431 GUUCGAUUUAAGCCAUCAU 1589 GuucGAuuuAAGccAucAudTdT A 1603 1432 AUGAUGGCUUAAAUCGAAC 1590 AUGAUGGCUuAAAUCGAACdTdT AD-20063 S 1123 1433 UGUGCCUCCUAGACACCCG 1591 uGuGccuccuAGAcAcccGdTdT A 1123 1434 CGGGUGUCUAGGAGGCACA 1592 CGGGUGUCuAGGAGGcAcAdTdT AD-20064 S 1233 1435 CUGGACUCUGUGUGAGCGU 1593 cuGGAcucuGuGuGAGcGudTdT A 1233 1436 ACGCUCACACAGAGUCCAG 1594 ACGCUcAcAcAGAGUCcAGdTdT AD-20065 S 1930 1437 ACCCUCUCUUUCAAUUGCA 1595 AcccucucuuucAAuuGcAdTdT A 1930 1438 UGCAAUUGAAAGAGAGGGU 1596 UGcAAUUGAAAGAGAGGGUdTdT AD-20066 S 1969 1439 CAGACACUACAUUACCCUA 1597 cAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAdTdT A 1969 1440 UAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUG 1598 uAGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUGdTdT AD-20067 S 1219 1441 AAUUUAUUGCCGUCCUGGA 1599 AAuuuAuuGccGuccuGGAdTdT A 1219 1442 UCCAGGACGGCAAUAAAUU 1600 UCcAGGACGGcAAuAAAUUdTdT AD-20068 S 1241 1443 UGUGUGAGCGUGUCCACAG 1601 uGuGuGAGcGuGuccAcAGdTdT A 1241 1444 CUGUGGACACGCUCACACA 1602 CUGUGGAcACGCUcAcAcAdTdT AD-20069 S 1153 1445 CCUGGUGGGCUAUUGAAGA 1603 ccuGGuGGGcuAuuGAAGAdTdT A 1153 1446 UCUUCAAUAGCCCACCAGG 1604 UCUUcAAuAGCCcACcAGGdTdT AD-20070 S 1805 1447 ACCUUCAGCCAUAGCUUGA 1605 AccuucAGccAuAGcuuGAdTdT A 1805 1448 UCAAGCUAUGGCUGAAGGU 1606 UcAAGCuAUGGCUGAAGGUdTdT AD-20194 S 1312 1449 GGAUGCUGAAGUACAGUCC 1607 GGAuGcuGAAGuAcAGuccdTdT A 1312 1450 GGACUGUACUUCAGCAUCC 1608 GGACUGuACUUcAGcAUCCdTdT AD-20071 S 1546 1451 AUCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUGG 1609 AuccuAGuuccAuucuuGGdTdT A 1546 1452 CCAAGAAUGGAACUAGGAU 1610 CcAAGAAUGGAACuAGGAUdTdT AD-20072 S 1547 1453 UCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUGGU 1611 uccuAGuuccAuucuuGGudTdT A 1547 1454 ACCAAGAAUGGAACUAGGA 1612 ACcAAGAAUGGAACuAGGAdTdT AD-20073 S 1103 1455 GGAGUACAAUCUGGUCUAA 1613 GGAGuAcAAucuGGucuAAdTdT A 1103 1456 UUAGACCAGAUUGUACUCC 1614 UuAGACcAGAUUGuACUCCdTdT A 1334 1457 CACAUUUCCUCUCUAUCUU 1615 cAcAuuuccucucuAucuudTdT A 1334 1458 AAGAUAGAGAGGAAAUGUG 1616 AAGAuAGAGAGGAAAUGUGdTdT AD-20074 S 1255 1459 CACAGAGUUUGUAGUAAAU 1617 cAcAGAGuuuGuAGuAAAudTdT A 1255 1460 AUUUACUACAAACUCUGUG 1618 AUUuACuAcAAACUCUGUGdTdT AD-20075 S 1967 1461 AACAGACACUACAUUACCC 1619 AAcAGAcAcuAcAuuAcccdTdT A 1967 1462 GGGUAAUGUAGUGUCUGUU 1620 GGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUGUUdTdT AD-20076 S 1391 1463 UUCUCAGUCAUGCACUCAC 1621 uucucAGucAuGcAcucAcdTdT A 1391 1464 GUGAGUGCAUGACUGAGAA 1622 GUGAGUGcAUGACUGAGAAdTdT AD-20077 S 1124 1465 GUGCCUCCUAGACACCCGC 1623 GuGccuccuAGAcAcccGcdTdT A 1124 1466 GCGGGUGUCUAGGAGGCAC 1624 GCGGGUGUCuAGGAGGcACdTdT AD-20078 S 1612 1467 AAGCCAUCAUCAGCUUAAU 1625 AAGccAucAucAGcuuAAudTdT A 1612 1468 AUUAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUU 1626 AUuAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUUdTdT AD-20079 S 1933 1469 CUCUCUUUCAAUUGCAGAU 1627 cucucuuucAAuuGcAGAudTdT A 1933 1470 AUCUGCAAUUGAAAGAGAG 1628 AUCUGcAAUUGAAAGAGAGdTdT AD-20080 S 1078 1471 ACACCAUCCUCCAGUUGAA 1629 AcAccAuccuccAGuuGAAdTdT A 1078 1472 UUCAACUGGAGGAUGGUGU 1630 UUcAACUGGAGGAUGGUGUdTdT AD-20081 S 1545 1473 UAUCCUAGUUCCAUUCUUG 1631 uAuccuAGuuccAuucuuGdTdT A 1545 1474 CAAGAAUGGAACUAGGAUA 1632 cAAGAAUGGAACuAGGAuAdTdT AD-20082 S 1109 1475 CAAUCUGGUCUAAUUGUGC 1633 cAAucuGGucuAAuuGuGcdTdT A 1109 1476 GCACAAUUAGACCAGAUUG 1634 GcAcAAUuAGACcAGAUUGdTdT AD-20083 S 1398 1477 UCAUGCACUCACAAAGAUA 1635 ucAuGcAcucAcAAAGAuAdTdT A 1398 1478 UAUCUUUGUGAGUGCAUGA 1636 uAUCUUUGUGAGUGcAUGAdTdT AD-20084 S 1970 1479 AGACACUACAUUACCCUAA 1637 AGAcAcuAcAuuAcccuAAdTdT A 1970 1480 UUAGGGUAAUGUAGUGUCU 1638 UuAGGGuAAUGuAGUGUCUdTdT AD-20085 S 1173 1481 ACACAAGAGGGACUGUAUU 1639 AcAcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuudTdT A 1173 1482 AAUACAGUCCCUCUUGUGU 1640 AAuAcAGUCCCUCUUGUGUdTdT AD-20086 S 1313 1483 GAUGCUGAAGUACAGUCCC 1641 GAuGcuGAAGuAcAGucccdTdT A 1313 1484 GGGACUGUACUUCAGCAUC 1642 GGGACUGuACUUcAGcAUCdTdT AD-20087 S 1811 1485 AGCCAUAGCUUGAUUGCUC 1643 AGccAuAGcuuGAuuGcucdTdT A 1811 1486 GAGCAAUCAAGCUAUGGCU 1644 GAGcAAUcAAGCuAUGGCUdTdT AD-20088 S 1862 1487 CACAGGAGUCCUUUCUUUU 1645 cAcAGGAGuccuuucuuuudTdT A 1862 1488 AAAAGAAAGGACUCCUGUG 1646 AAAAGAAAGGACUCCUGUGdTdT AD-20089 S 1600 1489 AUCGUUCGAUUUAAGCCAU 1647 AucGuucGAuuuAAGccAudTdT A 1600 1490 AUGGCUUAAAUCGAACGAU 1648 AUGGCUuAAAUCGAACGAUdTdT AD-20090 S 1618 1491 UCAUCAGCUUAAUUUAAGU 1649 ucAucAGcuuAAuuuAAGudTdT A 1618 1492 ACUUAAAUUAAGCUGAUGA 1650 ACUuAAAUuAAGCUGAUGAdTdT AD-20091 S 1332 1493 AGCACAUUUCCUCUCUAUC 1651 AGcAcAuuuccucucuAucdTdT A 1332 1494 GAUAGAGAGGAAAUGUGCU 1652 GAuAGAGAGGAAAUGUGCUdTdT AD-20092 S 1157 1495 GUGGGCUAUUGAAGAUACA 1653 GuGGGcuAuuGAAGAuAcAdTdT A 1157 1496 UGUAUCUUCAAUAGCCCAC 1654 UGuAUCUUcAAuAGCCcACdTdT AD-20093 S 888 1497 AUCAUGUAUUCCCAUCUAG 1655 AucAuGuAuucccAucuAGdTdT A 888 1498 CUAGAUGGGAAUACAUGAU 1656 CuAGAUGGGAAuAcAUGAUdTdT AD-20094 S 1855 1499 AAAGACACACAGGAGUCCU 1657 AAAGAcAcAcAGGAGuccudTdT A 1855 1500 AGGACUCCUGUGUGUCUUU 1658 AGGACUCCUGUGUGUCUUUdTdT AD-20095 S 1579 1501 CAAAUGAUACAGUCAGGAC 1659 cAAAuGAuAcAGucAGGAcdTdT A 1579 1502 GUCCUGACUGUAUCAUUUG 1660 GUCCUGACUGuAUcAUUUGdTdT AD-20096 S 805 1503 UUAGAACAAUUAUCACAUA 1661 uuAGAAcAAuuAucAcAuAdTdT A 805 1504 UAUGUGAUAAUUGUUCUAA 1662 uAUGUGAuAAUUGUUCuAAdTdT AD-20097 S 1554 1505 UCCAUUCUUGGUCAAGUUU 1663 uccAuucuuGGucAAGuuudTdT A 1554 1506 AAACUUGACCAAGAAUGGA 1664 AAACUUGACcAAGAAUGGAdTdT AD-20098 S 1113 1507 CUGGUCUAAUUGUGCCUCC 1665 cuGGucuAAuuGuGccuccdTdT A 1113 1508 GGAGGCACAAUUAGACCAG 1666 GGAGGcAcAAUuAGACcAGdTdT AD-20099 S 1174 1509 CACAAGAGGGACUGUAUUU 1667 cAcAAGAGGGAcuGuAuuudTdT A 1174 1510 AAAUACAGUCCCUCUUGUG 1668 AAAuAcAGUCCCUCUUGUGdTdT AD-20100 S 1735 1511 UCUUGUCUCACUUUGGACU 1669 ucuuGucucAcuuuGGAcudTdT A 1735 1512 AGUCCAAAGUGAGACAAGA 1670 AGUCcAAAGUGAGAcAAGAdTdT AD-20101 S 1450 1513 UUUUCUAUGGAGCAAAACA 1671 uuuucuAuGGAGcAAAAcAdTdT A 1450 1514 UGUUUUGCUCCAUAGAAAA 1672 UGUUUUGCUCcAuAGAAAAdTdT AD-20102 S 804 1515 UUUAGAACAAUUAUCACAU 1673 uuuAGAAcAAuuAucAcAudTdT A 804 1516 AUGUGAUAAUUGUUCUAAA 1674 AUGUGAuAAUUGUUCuAAAdTdT AD-20103 S 1866 1517 GGAGUCCUUUCUUUUGAAA 1675 GGAGuccuuucuuuuGAAAdTdT A 1866 1518 UUUCAAAAGAAAGGACUCC 1676 UUUcAAAAGAAAGGACUCCdTdT AD-20104 S 1610 1519 UUAAGCCAUCAUCAGCUUA 1677 uuAAGccAucAucAGcuuAdTdT A 1610 1520 UAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUUAA 1678 uAAGCUGAUGAUGGCUuAAdTdT AD-20105 S 1117 1521 UCUAAUUGUGCCUCCUAGA 1679 ucuAAuuGuGccuccuAGAdTdT A 1117 1522 UCUAGGAGGCACAAUUAGA 1680 UCuAGGAGGcAcAAUuAGAdTdT AD-20106 S 1320 1523 AAGUACAGUCCCAGCACAU 1681 AAGuAcAGucccAGcAcAudTdT A 1320 1524 AUGUGCUGGGACUGUACUU 1682 AUGUGCUGGGACUGuACUUdTdT AD-20195 S 1317 1525 CUGAAGUACAGUCCCAGCA 1683 cuGAAGuAcAGucccAGcAdTdT A 1317 1526 UGCUGGGACUGUACUUCAG 1684 UGCUGGGACUGuACUUcAGdTdT

TABLE 7a Sequences of dsRNA targeting Mouse GNAQ (NM_031036) (target is position of 5′ base on transcript of NM_031036 SEQ SEQ Duplex ID Unmodified sequence ID Modified sequence Name Strand Target NO: 5′ to 3′ NO: 5′ to 3′ AD-20107 S 853 1685 UAUUCCCACCUAGUCGACU 1719 uAuucccAccuAGucGAcudTdT A 853 1686 AGUCGACUAGGUGGGAAUA 1720 AGUCGACuAGGUGGGAAuAdTdT AD-20108 S 855 1687 UUCCCACCUAGUCGACUAC 1721 uucccAccuAGucGAcuAcdTdT A 855 1688 GUAGUCGACUAGGUGGGAA 1722 GuAGUCGACuAGGUGGGAAdTdT AD-20109 S 367 1689 GCUUUUGAGAAUCCAUAUG 1723 GcuuuuGAGAAuccAuAuGdTdT A 367 1690 CAUAUGGAUUCUCAAAAGC 1724 cAuAUGGAUUCUcAAAAGCdTdT AD-20196 S 55 1691 CGGAGGAUCAACGACGAGA 1725 cGGAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAdTdT A 55 1692 UCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCG 1726 UCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCGdTdT AD-20197 S 459 1693 AUCUGACUCUACCAAAUAC 1727 AucuGAcucuAccAAAuAcdTdT A 459 1694 GUAUUUGGUAGAGUCAGAU 1728 GuAUUUGGuAGAGUcAGAUdTdT AD-20110 S 312 1695 ACACAAUAAGGCUCAUGCA 1729 AcAcAAuAAGGcucAuGcAdTdT A 312 1696 UGCAUGAGCCUUAUUGUGU 1730 UGcAUGAGCCUuAUUGUGUdTdT AD-20111 S 178 1697 AGGAUCAUCCACGGGUCGG 1731 AGGAucAuccAcGGGucGGdTdT A 178 1698 CCGACCCGUGGAUGAUCCU 1732 CCGACCCGUGGAUGAUCCUdTdT AD-20112 S 297 1699 CCCAUACAAGUAUGAACAC 1733 cccAuAcAAGuAuGAAcAcdTdT A 297 1700 GUGUUCAUACUUGUAUGGG 1734 GUGUUcAuACUUGuAUGGGdTdT AD-20113 S 315 1701 CAAUAAGGCUCAUGCACAA 1735 cAAuAAGGcucAuGcAcAAdTdT A 315 1702 UUGUGCAUGAGCCUUAUUG 1736 UUGUGcAUGAGCCUuAUUGdTdT AD-20114 S 58 1703 AGGAUCAACGACGAGAUCG 1737 AGGAucAAcGAcGAGAucGdTdT A 58 1704 CGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCU 1738 CGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUdTdT AD-20115 S 324 1705 UCAUGCACAAUUGGUUCGA 1739 ucAuGcAcAAuuGGuucGAdTdT A 324 1706 UCGAACCAAUUGUGCAUGA 1740 UCGAACcAAUUGUGcAUGAdTdT AD-20116 S 59 1707 GGAUCAACGACGAGAUCGA 1741 GGAucAAcGAcGAGAucGAdTdT A 59 1708 UCGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCC 1742 UCGAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCdTdT AD-20117 S 398 1709 AGAGCUUGUGGAAUGAUCC 1743 AGAGcuuGuGGAAuGAuccdTdT A 398 1710 GGAUCAUUCCACAAGCUCU 1744 GGAUcAUUCcAcAAGCUCUdTdT AD-20118 S 57 1711 GAGGAUCAACGACGAGAUC 1745 GAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAucdTdT A 57 1712 GAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUC 1746 GAUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCdTdT AD-20119 S 56 1713 GGAGGAUCAACGACGAGAU 1747 GGAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAudTdT A 56 1714 AUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCC 1748 AUCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCdTdT AD-20120 S 369 1715 UUUUGAGAAUCCAUAUGUA 1749 uuuuGAGAAuccAuAuGuAdTdT A 369 1716 UACAUAUGGAUUCUCAAAA 1750 uAcAuAUGGAUUCUcAAAAdTdT AD-20121 S 45 1717 CAAGGAAGCCCGGAGGAUC 1751 cAAGGAAGcccGGAGGAucdTdT A 45 1718 GAUCCUCCGGGCUUCCUUG 1752 GAUCCUCCGGGCUUCCUUGdTdT

TABLE 7b Sequences of dsRNA targeting GNAQ (AD-20196 and AD-20197 only) SEQ SEQ Duplex ID Unmodified sequence ID Modified sequence Name Strand NO: 5′ to 3′ NO: 5′ to 3′ AD-20196 S 1753 CGGAGGAUCAACGACGAGA 1757 cGGAGGAucAAcGAcGAGAdTdT A 1754 UCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCG 1758 UCUCGUCGUUGAUCCUCCGdTdT AD-20197 S 1755 AUCUGACUCUACCAAAUAC 1759 AucuGAcucuAccAAAuAcdTdT A 1756 GUAUUUGGUAGAGUCAGAU 1760 GuAUUUGGuAGAGUcAGAUdTdT

Total RNA isolation using MagMAX-96 Total RNA Isolation Kit (Applied Biosystem, Foster City Calif., Part #: AM1830):

Cells were harvested and lysed in 140 μl of Lysis/Binding Solution then mixed for 1 minute at 850 rpm using and Eppendorf Thermomixer (the mixing speed was the same throughout the process). Twenty micro liters of magnetic beads were added into cell-lysate and mixed for 5 minutes. Magnetic beads were captured using magnetic stand and the supernatant was removed without disturbing the beads. After removing supernatant, magnetic beads were washed with Wash Solution 1 (isopropanol added) and mixed for 1 minute. Beads were capture again and supernatant removed. Beads were then washed with 150 μl Wash Solution 2 (Ethanol added), captured and supernatant was removed. 50 ul of DNase mixture (MagMax turbo DNase Buffer and Turbo DNase) was then added to the beads and they were mixed for 10 to 15 minutes. After mixing, 100 μl of RNA Rebinding Solution was added and mixed for 3 minutes. Supernatant was removed and magnetic beads were washed again with 150 μl Wash Solution 2 and mixed for 1 minute and supernatant was removed completely. The magnetic beads were mixed for 2 minutes to dry before RNA it was eluted with 50 μl of water.

Total RNA Isolation Using RNAqueous®-96 Well Plate Procedure (Applied Biosystem, Foster City Calif., Part #: 1812):

Cells were lysed for 5 minutes in 200 μl of Lysis/Binding Solution. 100 μl of 100% ethanol was added into each cell lysate and the total 300 μl lysates were transferred into one wells of “filter plate”. Filter plate was centrifuged at RCF of 10,000-15,000 g for 2 minutes. 300 μl Wash Solution was then added into each well and the plate was centrifuged at RCF of 10,000-15,000g for 2 minutes. For DNase treatment, 20 μl of DNase mixture was added on top of each filter and the plate was incubated for 15 minutes at room temperature. RNA rebinding was performed by washing filters with 200 μL of Rebinding Mix and 1 minute later samples were centrifuged at RCF of 10,000-15,000g for 2 minutes. Filter was washed then twice with 200 μl of Wash Solution and centrifuged at RCF of 10,000-15,000g for 2 minutes. A third centrifugation of 2 minutes was then applied after the reservoir unit was emptied and elution of the RNA was done into a clean culture plate by adding into the filters 50 μL of preheated (80° C.) Nuclease-free Water.

cDNA Synthesis Using ABI High Capacity cDNA Reverse Transcription Kit (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif., Cat #4368813):

A master mix of 2 μl 10× Buffer, 0.8 μl 25× dNTPs, 2 μl Random primers, 1 μl Reverse Transcriptase, 1 μl RNase inhibitor and 3.2 μl of H2O per reaction were added into 10 μl total RNA. cDNA was generated using a Bio-Rad C-1000 or S-1000 thermal cycler (Hercules, Calif.) through the following steps: 25° C. 10 min, 37° C. 120 min, 85° C. 5 sec, 4° C. hold.

Real Time PCR:

2 μl of cDNA was added to a master mix of 1 μl GAPDH TaqMan Probe (Human GAPD Endogenous Control VIC/MGB Probe, Primer Limited Applied Biosystems Cat #4326317E), 1 μl GNAQ TaqMan probe (Applied Biosystems cat #HS00387073_M1) and 10 μl TaqMan Universal PCR Master Mix (Applied Biosystems Cat #4324018) per well in a MicroAmp Optical 96 well plate (Applied Biosystems cat #4326659). Real time PCR was done in an ABI 7900HT Real Time PCR system (Applied Biosystems) using the ΔΔCt(RQ) assay. All reactions were done in triplicate.

Real time data were analyzed using the ΔΔCt method and normalized to assays performed from cells transfected with 10 nM BlockIT fluorescent Oligo (Invitrogen Cat #2013) or 10 nM AD-1955 a duplex that targets luciferase to calculate fold change.

Results

A total of 94 chemically modified siRNAs were screened. Single dose screens were performed in A549 (lung carcinoma), A375 (malignant melanoma) and uveal melanoma cell lines GNAQ^(mut), OMM1.3, and MEL202. Tables 8-14 show the results of the single-dose in vitro siRNA screen.

TABLE 8 A375 cells (0.1 nM) GNAQ dsRNA single dose in vitro screen A375 cells (0.1 nM conc.) Sample % Target St. Dev Name Duplex Name Remaining error 26 AD-20057 44.52 4.74 21 AD-20052 49.83 4.55 20 AD-20051 51.94 6.86 38 AD-20069 53.68 5.80 60 AD-20092 54.34 5.94 66 AD-20099 56.06 5.86 14 AD-20045 56.35 5.74 91 AD-20193 57.53 3.82 68 AD-20101 58.44 4.72 23 AD-20054 60.08 6.13 89 AD-20103 60.82 5.02 16 AD-20047 61.66 5.59 53 AD-20085 61.99 8.52 56 AD-20088 62.09 7.48 81 AD-20116 63.84 7.76 19 AD-20050 64.39 8.36 78 AD-20113 64.84 7.95 8 AD-20039 65.29 9.23 51 AD-20083 70.34 8.09 65 AD-20097 71.57 5.92 11 AD-20042 74.74 8.67 43 AD-20074 74.87 6.70 47 AD-20079 75.39 6.12 24 AD-20055 77.24 36.15 58 AD-20090 77.65 9.17 57 AD-20089 78.32 9.94 44 AD-20076 78.59 5.98 46 AD-20078 79.00 5.54 64 AD-20096 80.39 5.96 48 AD-20080 80.66 10.31 84 AD-20119 80.94 5.22 3 AD-20034 81.37 7.63 10 AD-20041 81.65 6.39 12 AD-20043 81.65 11.97 6 AD-20037 81.79 11.99 59 AD-20091 81.79 9.24 13 AD-20044 81.79 6.42 30 AD-20061 85.41 8.80 63 AD-20095 85.71 8.69 18 AD-20049 85.71 10.26 75 AD-20110 86.60 13.52 52 AD-20084 87.81 11.94 69 AD-20102 87.81 6.48 94 AD-20196 88.58 6.22 71 AD-20106 88.73 9.38 70 AD-20104 89.35 14.88 35 AD-20066 89.81 7.73 54 AD-20086 89.97 12.64 45 AD-20077 90.28 10.05 72 AD-20107 90.59 5.99 83 AD-20118 90.75 8.80 34 AD-20065 91.54 12.41 62 AD-20094 92.02 10.71 74 AD-20109 92.82 11.79 79 AD-20114 92.82 11.48 73 AD-20108 93.14 8.59 80 AD-20115 93.47 9.77 93 AD-20195 93.63 7.82 55 AD-20087 93.95 15.29 76 AD-20111 93.95 14.29 92 AD-20194 94.44 6.29 82 AD-20117 94.61 12.80 15 AD-20046 94.61 10.42 22 AD-20053 94.93 16.04 77 AD-20112 95.10 12.23 29 AD-20060 95.10 11.08 67 AD-20100 95.26 11.16 28 AD-20059 95.43 11.09 32 AD-20063 95.93 14.32 25 AD-20056 96.09 12.23 90 96.26 9.50 95 AD-20105 96.76 10.01 9 AD-20040 97.10 7.88 17 AD-20048 97.10 11.44 88 AD-20098 97.27 6.97 61 AD-20093 97.27 12.46 39 AD-20070 97.43 9.70 7 AD-20038 97.60 11.22 87 97.94 8.37 49 AD-20081 98.45 9.22 31 AD-20062 98.62 13.40 86 AD-20121 98.62 10.71 50 AD-20082 98.79 12.83 41 AD-20072 98.97 9.54 42 AD-20073 99.48 9.92 85 AD-20120 99.65 7.42 27 AD-20058 99.83 16.38 33 AD-20064 100.35 10.82 1 AD-20032 101.40 9.56 37 AD-20068 101.57 9.44 4 AD-20035 102.99 15.49 2 AD-20033 103.71 13.63 40 AD-20071 104.25 10.82 5 AD-20036 106.25 23.63

TABLE 9 A375 cells (1.0 nM) single dose GNAQ in vitro screen A375 cells (1 nM conc.) Sample % Target St. Dev Name Duplex Name Remaining error 26 AD-20057 39.55 7.92 21 AD-20052 41.23 9.20 38 AD-20069 44.42 6.19 68 AD-20101 45.04 6.93 20 AD-20051 45.11 8.89 14 AD-20045 45.98 7.80 19 AD-20050 47.11 11.07 53 AD-20085 47.52 9.93 56 AD-20088 47.60 9.91 16 AD-20047 48.35 8.35 66 AD-20099 48.44 8.52 78 AD-20113 48.69 8.81 81 AD-20116 49.20 9.77 23 AD-20054 49.71 8.20 89 AD-20103 49.80 7.27 91 AD-20193 51.29 8.73 65 AD-20097 52.27 9.60 60 AD-20092 52.46 6.04 51 AD-20083 55.64 9.34 58 AD-20090 57.30 9.63 8 AD-20039 57.70 15.80 11 AD-20042 58.51 9.24 43 AD-20074 59.43 9.18 24 AD-20055 59.53 13.24 47 AD-20079 59.74 8.98 57 AD-20089 59.94 11.78 46 AD-20078 61.10 12.31 18 AD-20049 61.31 8.08 30 AD-20061 63.14 11.19 6 AD-20037 63.91 10.65 10 AD-20041 64.25 12.25 59 AD-20091 64.36 10.87 3 AD-20034 65.26 12.38 13 AD-20044 65.26 10.78 64 AD-20096 66.51 10.16 44 AD-20076 66.86 8.87 93 AD-20195 67.44 8.49 12 AD-20043 68.74 12.02 94 AD-20196 68.98 12.81 35 AD-20066 69.70 10.38 54 AD-20086 70.79 13.09 45 AD-20077 71.04 10.55 84 AD-20119 71.28 8.50 52 AD-20084 71.53 14.24 34 AD-20065 72.15 12.77 29 AD-20060 74.44 11.33 48 AD-20080 74.83 9.32 63 AD-20095 75.09 12.36 75 AD-20110 75.35 15.56 92 AD-20194 76.40 12.95 70 AD-20104 76.67 10.72 28 AD-20059 78.41 12.71 74 AD-20109 78.55 15.25 15 AD-20046 78.69 12.82 55 AD-20087 79.37 12.92 69 AD-20102 80.90 11.23 31 AD-20062 80.90 15.87 4 AD-20035 81.18 19.43 83 AD-20118 82.45 19.97 49 AD-20081 82.60 15.95 67 AD-20100 82.88 13.22 42 AD-20073 83.32 14.05 25 AD-20056 84.19 16.11 62 AD-20094 84.48 13.94 41 AD-20072 84.92 12.80 9 AD-20040 85.21 15.48 71 AD-20106 85.51 16.45 90 85.81 15.45 7 AD-20038 86.85 16.09 79 AD-20114 87.76 16.56 33 AD-20064 88.07 20.64 80 AD-20115 88.07 17.42 2 AD-20033 88.68 16.03 61 AD-20093 89.76 13.56 32 AD-20063 90.07 14.83 36 AD-20067 90.23 9.73 77 AD-20112 90.54 15.45 86 AD-20121 91.49 20.81 95 AD-20105 91.65 17.40 22 AD-20053 91.97 20.15 5 AD-20036 92.13 23.89 37 AD-20068 92.77 14.46 39 AD-20070 93.09 16.90 27 AD-20058 93.09 17.29 17 AD-20048 93.25 14.32 88 AD-20098 93.25 14.60 82 AD-20117 93.41 17.84 40 AD-20071 94.39 15.66 50 AD-20082 94.88 17.58 87 95.71 15.99 1 AD-20032 96.71 14.37 73 AD-20108 96.71 17.36 85 AD-20120 97.04 11.67 72 AD-20107 108.05 12.36

TABLE 10 A549 cells (1.0 nM) single dose GNAQ in vitro screen A549 cells (1 nM conc.) Sample Name Duplex Name % Target Remaining St. Dev error 78 AD-20113 13.33 2.98 53 AD-20085 15.79 3.53 81 AD-20116 16.44 3.68 21 AD-20052 16.90 3.78 20 AD-20051 17.31 3.87 38 AD-20069 17.71 3.96 66 AD-20099 17.77 3.98 19 AD-20050 18.11 4.05 64 AD-20096 18.17 4.07 26 AD-20057 18.75 4.20 89 AD-20103 19.11 4.28 43 AD-20074 19.28 4.31 51 AD-20083 19.41 4.34 68 AD-20101 19.61 4.39 14 AD-20045 20.06 4.49 8 AD-20039 20.20 4.52 11 AD-20042 20.41 4.57 65 AD-20097 20.99 4.70 60 AD-20092 21.02 4.70 56 AD-20088 22.53 5.04 44 AD-20076 22.57 5.05 58 AD-20090 23.29 5.21 57 AD-20089 23.29 5.21 47 AD-20079 23.69 5.30 74 AD-20109 23.86 5.34 16 AD-20047 24.02 5.38 63 AD-20095 24.36 5.45 59 AD-20091 25.04 5.60 23 AD-20054 25.17 5.63 45 AD-20077 25.61 5.73 48 AD-20080 25.84 5.78 91 AD-20193 28.92 6.47 13 AD-20044 29.83 6.68 6 AD-20037 30.89 6.91 46 AD-20078 31.10 6.96 24 AD-20055 31.64 7.08 85 AD-20120 31.70 7.09 18 AD-20049 33.74 7.55 84 AD-20119 34.75 7.77 3 AD-20034 35.85 8.02 35 AD-20066 36.73 8.22 70 AD-20104 36.92 8.26 12 AD-20043 38.62 8.64 54 AD-20086 38.96 8.72 15 AD-20046 39.98 8.95 34 AD-20065 40.19 8.99 93 AD-20195 41.18 9.21 75 AD-20110 41.18 9.21 69 AD-20102 41.68 9.33 52 AD-20084 42.19 9.44 30 AD-20061 44.29 9.91 94 AD-20196 48.13 10.77 40 AD-20071 48.21 10.79 49 AD-20081 48.72 10.90 10 AD-20041 48.80 10.92 36 AD-20067 48.97 10.96 29 AD-20060 50.79 11.36 31 AD-20062 51.05 11.42 90 52.12 11.66 55 AD-20087 52.30 11.70 61 AD-20093 52.85 11.83 2 AD-20033 53.50 11.97 25 AD-20056 55.77 12.48 4 AD-20035 56.25 12.59 1 AD-20032 57.43 12.85 92 AD-20194 60.19 13.47 42 AD-20073 61.03 13.65 5 AD-20036 61.45 13.75 28 AD-20059 61.99 13.87 50 AD-20082 62.09 13.89 67 AD-20100 63.29 14.16 83 AD-20118 64.06 14.33 62 AD-20094 64.17 14.36 27 AD-20058 64.95 14.53 7 AD-20038 69.26 15.50 79 AD-20114 71.45 15.99 39 AD-20070 72.07 16.13 41 AD-20072 74.61 16.69 86 AD-20121 74.61 16.69 33 AD-20064 75.39 16.87 9 AD-20040 80.11 17.92 72 AD-20107 82.22 18.40 95 AD-20105 86.90 19.45 73 AD-20108 87.96 19.68 17 AD-20048 89.04 19.92 88 AD-20098 90.13 20.17 77 AD-20112 90.44 20.24 80 AD-20115 91.07 20.38 22 AD-20053 91.86 20.55 37 AD-20068 92.50 20.70 32 AD-20063 92.66 20.73 76 AD-20111 92.82 20.77 71 AD-20106 92.98 20.80 82 AD-20117 109.81 24.57 87 110.19 24.65

TABLE 11 OMM1.3 cells (10 nM) single dose GNAQ in vitro screen OMM1.3 cells (10 nM conc.) Sample % Target Name Duplex Name Remaining St. Dev error 85 AD-20120 51.12 7.27 58 AD-20090 51.83 11.83 89 AD-20103 53.57 6.93 68 AD-20101 54.50 10.88 64 AD-20096 54.60 9.30 57 AD-20089 54.98 10.87 53 AD-20085 55.07 11.92 38 AD-20069 55.55 10.05 59 AD-20091 55.94 13.82 51 AD-20083 56.42 13.08 60 AD-20092 56.72 11.64 65 AD-20097 57.61 8.03 45 AD-20077 57.81 11.18 63 AD-20095 57.81 10.19 43 AD-20074 58.01 11.58 91 AD-20193 58.11 10.38 26 AD-20057 58.21 10.36 20 AD-20051 58.41 7.60 24 AD-20055 58.92 9.65 66 AD-20099 59.74 10.83 44 AD-20076 59.74 12.63 23 AD-20054 59.95 8.25 47 AD-20079 60.06 11.09 56 AD-20088 60.06 12.78 61 AD-20093 60.06 13.48 41 AD-20072 60.37 12.49 13 AD-20044 61.11 12.23 35 AD-20066 61.32 11.53 90 61.53 10.72 19 AD-20050 61.64 10.53 14 AD-20045 61.85 7.21 15 AD-20046 61.96 10.96 21 AD-20052 62.07 7.36 34 AD-20065 62.61 8.87 29 AD-20060 62.71 11.52 16 AD-20047 62.93 8.91 93 AD-20195 63.26 10.94 69 AD-20102 63.59 7.49 54 AD-20086 64.25 16.58 50 AD-20082 64.59 16.58 94 AD-20196 64.70 9.71 48 AD-20080 64.70 12.16 30 AD-20061 64.81 9.02 A2 65.26 13.18 70 AD-20104 65.83 8.26 A3 66.41 11.43 18 AD-20049 68.27 11.57 49 AD-20081 68.75 15.03 55 AD-20087 69.35 14.25 31 AD-20062 69.71 10.58 52 AD-20084 71.42 17.10 A4 72.29 8.52 67 AD-20100 73.68 15.34 27 AD-20058 74.19 12.01 36 AD-20067 74.32 17.93 33 AD-20064 75.23 14.71 72 AD-20107 75.88 10.61 28 AD-20059 76.94 13.68 A1 76.94 14.61 71 AD-20106 77.08 12.79 25 AD-20056 79.11 12.52  8 AD-20039 80.21 10.01 39 AD-20070 80.49 14.56 88 AD-20098 80.63 11.15 40 AD-20071 80.77 16.38 62 AD-20094 81.75 16.23 86 AD-20121 84.49 9.13 17 AD-20048 84.64 16.94 12 AD-20043 86.87 14.40 22 AD-20053 87.93 14.30 11 AD-20042 88.23 13.27 37 AD-20068 91.66 17.18 32 AD-20063 91.98 14.78 87 94.56 10.00  9 AD-20040 96.89 12.28  6 AD-20037 97.90 16.58  2 AD-20033 100.48 17.62  3 AD-20034 100.83 12.65  1 AD-20032 105.84 19.01  7 AD-20038 114.62 16.88  5 AD-20036 115.42 14.21  4 AD-20035 123.49 11.58 10 AD-20041 135.05 65.85

TABLE 12 OMM1.3 cells (10 nM) single dose GNAQ in vitro screen OMM1.3 (10 nM conc.) Sample Name Duplex Name % Target Remaining St. Dev error 38 AD-20069 50.04 6.45 68 AD-20101 50.30 7.35 53 AD-20085 51.09 11.53 66 AD-20099 51.45 8.97 64 AD-20096 51.72 8.35 43 AD-20074 53.17 6.93 21 AD-20052 53.54 8.56 51 AD-20083 53.54 10.85 58 AD-20090 53.82 9.62 45 AD-20077 54.29 8.36 26 AD-20057 54.76 12.81 56 AD-20088 54.86 12.18 65 AD-20097 54.86 7.64 89 AD-20103 55.24 9.10 63 AD-20095 55.33 9.42 23 AD-20054 55.53 7.94 19 AD-20050 55.53 8.95 57 AD-20089 55.82 10.84 91 AD-20193 56.01 10.65 16 AD-20047 56.20 8.85 20 AD-20051 56.50 9.35 47 AD-20079 56.50 7.15 15 AD-20046 56.69 7.92 44 AD-20076 57.09 8.01 59 AD-20091 57.09 9.56  8 AD-20039 57.29 7.18 61 AD-20093 57.58 10.14 14 AD-20045 57.78 10.19 85 AD-20120 57.78 9.98 54 AD-20086 57.88 9.77 11 AD-20042 58.90 11.84 13 AD-20044 59.41 11.72 48 AD-20080 60.55 9.45 41 AD-20072 60.87 6.66 A2 61.08 9.29 12 AD-20043 61.72 13.93 35 AD-20066 61.72 11.27  6 AD-20037 61.72 9.69 69 AD-20102 61.93 10.90 34 AD-20065 62.15 12.75 60 AD-20092 62.25 10.76 50 AD-20082 62.80 11.11  3 AD-20034 63.12 7.93 10 AD-20041 63.89 9.55 18 AD-20049 64.00 9.43 30 AD-20061 64.12 10.78 29 AD-20060 64.23 12.25 70 AD-20104 65.35 10.65 52 AD-20084 67.54 14.15 55 AD-20087 67.77 12.89 90 67.77 10.53 24 AD-20055 68.36 10.68  9 AD-20040 68.60 11.16  5 AD-20036 69.08 10.37 93 AD-20195 69.44 10.54  2 AD-20033 70.04 12.33 31 AD-20062 71.02 11.73 49 AD-20081 71.02 11.45 39 AD-20070 71.51 9.18 27 AD-20058 71.88 11.58 67 AD-20100 72.01 9.95 94 AD-20196 72.26 15.50 A1 72.89 8.79 33 AD-20064 73.39 13.32 A4 73.65 12.42 A3 74.55 14.37 25 AD-20056 74.81 12.70 28 AD-20059 74.94 14.91 40 AD-20071 75.20 10.84 36 AD-20067 76.64 12.54 71 AD-20106 76.64 10.67  4 AD-20035 76.91 10.25 22 AD-20053 78.80 15.37 86 AD-20121 79.48 10.26  7 AD-20038 79.62 10.32 17 AD-20048 80.59 13.99 88 AD-20098 81.01 12.34 72 AD-20107 82.00 16.19 62 AD-20094 82.43 14.56 32 AD-20063 84.60 12.39 37 AD-20068 93.22 16.05 87 94.52 14.29  1 AD-20032 115.87 15.00

TABLE 13 UMEL 202 cells (10 nM) single dose GNAQ in vitro screen UMEL 202 cells (10 nm Conc. Sample Name Duplex Name % Target Remaining St. Dev error 51 AD-20083 17.87 3.17 85 AD-20120 18.37 4.48 45 AD-20077 18.76 5.42 68 AD-20101 18.82 3.16 26 AD-20057 19.42 3.43 64 AD-20096 19.66 3.25 15 AD-20046 19.83 4.71 58 AD-20090 19.90 4.30 57 AD-20089 20.74 4.31 53 AD-20085 21.55 4.68 89 AD-20103 22.15 4.48 63 AD-20095 22.31 2.70 21 AD-20052 22.46 4.02 11 AD-20042 22.66 2.36 59 AD-20091 22.78 4.06 20 AD-20051 22.86 3.46 38 AD-20069 23.34 5.47 16 AD-20047 23.58 3.90 43 AD-20074 23.62 5.71 19 AD-20050 23.87 4.41  8 AD-20039 23.91 2.96 14 AD-20045 24.33 4.08 47 AD-20079 25.10 5.85 50 AD-20082 25.27 4.51  3 AD-20034 25.49 4.73 61 AD-20093 25.54 4.75 60 AD-20092 25.76 4.91 56 AD-20088 25.94 3.59 66 AD-20099 26.03 4.28 65 AD-20097 26.30 4.82 41 AD-20072 27.09 6.80 13 AD-20044 27.61 5.71  2 AD-20033 27.70 3.68 91 AD-20193 27.90 4.64 29 AD-20060 27.99 5.33 44 AD-20076 28.04 7.95 A2 28.29 6.73 54 AD-20086 28.78 5.43 69 AD-20102 29.18 4.79 48 AD-20080 29.28 8.11  5 AD-20036 30.90 4.82 A3 30.95 6.03 18 AD-20049 31.06 4.57  6 AD-20037 31.17 3.46 30 AD-20061 31.49 6.96 35 AD-20066 31.71 39.01 34 AD-20065 34.05 7.29 90 34.11 5.07 94 AD-20196 34.17 6.48 23 AD-20054 34.46 5.09 12 AD-20043 34.70 2.93 10 AD-20041 34.76 6.00 55 AD-20087 36.55 8.21 31 AD-20062 36.81 7.00 49 AD-20081 37.06 7.58 25 AD-20056 39.04 9.55 70 AD-20104 39.59 6.12 52 AD-20084 39.93 6.61 A4 40.42 7.46 93 AD-20195 41.99 7.10 40 AD-20071 42.28 8.86 27 AD-20058 43.40 9.27  4 AD-20035 47.00 6.36 24 AD-20055 47.08 6.37 A1 48.65 10.76  9 AD-20040 50.46 8.04 28 AD-20059 50.63 12.97 39 AD-20070 51.43 9.23 36 AD-20067 52.42 10.11 33 AD-20064 52.78 10.02 17 AD-20048 54.36 8.74 88 AD-20098 55.50 9.72 86 AD-20121 57.16 8.59 67 AD-20100 58.87 8.34 22 AD-20053 65.32 10.91 62 AD-20094 68.10 10.87  7 AD-20038 72.48 9.86 37 AD-20068 74.00 17.25 71 AD-20106 82.39 11.32 32 AD-20063 83.11 17.34 72 AD-20107 89.39 11.20 87 99.18 18.11  1 AD-20032 119.33 18.54

TABLE 14 UMEL MEL 202 cells (10 nM) single dose GNAQ in vitro screen UMEL202 cells (10 nM) Sample Name Duplex Name % Target Remaining St. Dev error 85 AD-20120 16.28 1.84 26 AD-20057 18.41 3.50 68 AD-20101 18.73 3.64 45 AD-20077 19.09 4.41 64 AD-20096 19.33 4.19 21 AD-20052 21.08 3.11 51 AD-20083 21.22 4.27 58 AD-20090 22.36 4.62 63 AD-20095 22.55 3.04 20 AD-20051 23.22 2.94 53 AD-20085 23.43 4.97 57 AD-20089 23.43 4.55  8 AD-20039 24.00 3.73 89 AD-20103 24.25 5.69 15 AD-20046 24.30 3.82 38 AD-20069 25.02 5.88 19 AD-20050 25.11 3.28 11 AD-20042 25.20 3.93 16 AD-20047 25.20 3.98 59 AD-20091 25.41 5.04 43 AD-20074 25.50 6.00 61 AD-20093 25.50 4.07 66 AD-20099 25.68 3.88 65 AD-20097 25.90 2.90 56 AD-20088 25.95 4.67 47 AD-20079 26.31 5.00 41 AD-20072 26.96 5.21 69 AD-20102 27.19 3.81 14 AD-20045 27.72 5.20 13 AD-20044 28.10 5.06 50 AD-20082 28.25 5.67 54 AD-20086 28.35 4.75 60 AD-20092 28.84 4.72 29 AD-20060 29.04 5.29  2 AD-20033 29.24 4.55 91 AD-20193 29.30 7.31 35 AD-20066 29.40 6.42  3 AD-20034 29.45 5.51 A2 30.70 5.81 48 AD-20080 30.86 7.14 44 AD-20076 31.07 7.63 12 AD-20043 31.29 7.00 30 AD-20061 31.40 5.57 94 AD-20196 32.22 8.75 A3 32.73 7.68 18 AD-20049 33.36 6.21  5 AD-20036 34.12 4.63 34 AD-20065 34.60 4.89  6 AD-20037 34.66 5.71 70 AD-20104 35.32 5.17 23 AD-20054 35.39 5.08 90 36.19 8.71 10 AD-20041 36.82 5.22 A4 36.89 11.72 93 AD-20195 37.73 9.95 31 AD-20062 37.93 7.86 25 AD-20056 40.51 8.37 55 AD-20087 40.65 10.00 52 AD-20084 41.72 7.24 24 AD-20055 43.26 6.08 49 AD-20081 43.34 13.40 27 AD-20058 45.57 7.25 A1 45.89 8.52  4 AD-20035 46.13 8.13 28 AD-20059 48.25 8.52 36 AD-20067 48.84 13.01 40 AD-20071 48.93 9.64 88 AD-20098 50.30 12.25 33 AD-20064 50.48 7.61  9 AD-20040 50.74 6.96 67 AD-20100 50.92 9.41 39 AD-20070 53.36 14.44 17 AD-20048 53.45 6.78 22 AD-20053 66.61 12.90 86 AD-20121 66.84 16.28 62 AD-20094 67.89 11.19  7 AD-20038 70.53 8.81 71 AD-20106 81.44 14.31 32 AD-20063 83.29 12.02 72 AD-20107 85.04 14.05 87 100.26 29.22 37 AD-20068 108.58 54.53  1 AD-20032 124.62 15.51

Duplexes with desirable levels of GNAQ inhibition were selected for further analysis of IC50 in A549 (lung carcinoma) MEL202 (GNAQ_(mut) uveal melanoma), and OMM1.3 cells (GNAQ_(mut) liver metastisis). Tables 15-17 show the results of the IC50 experiments in A549, MEL202, and OMM1.3 cells. Dose response screen identified pM IC50s in lung carcinoma cell line and GNAQmut uveal melanoma MEL202 and OMM1.3, including duplexes AD-20057 and AD-20051.

TABLE 15 IC50 in A549 cells Rank Duplex Name IC50 in [nM] IC50 in [pM] 1 AD-20057 0.0002 0.2 2 AD-20069 0.0026 2.6 3 AD-20051 0.0031 3.1 4 AD-20052 0.0032 3.2 5 AD-20099 0.0033 3.3 6 AD-20045 0.0052 5.2 7 AD-20193 0.0064 6.4 8 AD-20092 0.0094 9.4 9 AD-20116 0.0098 9.8 10 AD-20039 0.0137 13.7 11 AD-20042 0.0172 17.2

TABLE 16 IC50 in MEL 202 cells Rank Duplex Name/(Sample Name) IC50 in [nM] 1 AD-20057 (26) 0.001 2 AD-20069 (38) 0.002 3 AD-20051 (20) 0.002 4 AD-20052 (21) 0.003 5 AD-20045 (14) 0.003 6 AD-20193 (91) 0.003 7 AD-20092 (60) 0.003 8 AD-20099 (66) 0.004 9 AD-20101 (68) 0.005 10 AD-20116 (81) 0.006 11 AD-20039 (8) 0.006 12 AD-20103 (89) 0.007 13 AD-20085 (53) 0.008 14 AD-20113 (78) 0.010 15 AD-20083 (51) 0.010 16 AD-20096 (64) 0.010 17 AD-20042 (11) 0.011 18 AD-20090 (58) 0.023 19 AD-20119 (84) 0.024 20 AD-20120 (85) 0.037 21 AD-20109 (74) 0.047 22 AD-20077 (45) 0.084

TABLE 17 IC50 in OMM1.3 cells Rank Duplex Name (Sample) IC50 in [nM] 1 AD-20057 (26) 0.0043 2 AD-20069 (38) 0.0115 3 AD-20052 (21) 0.0183 4 AD-20051 (20) 0.0197 5 AD-20099 (66) 0.0270 6 AD-20092 (60) 0.0280 7 AD-20193 (91) 0.0335 8 AD-20101 (68) 0.0531 9 AD-20045 (14) 0.0538 10 AD-20113 (78) 0.0625 11 AD-20039 (8) 0.0693 12 AD-20103 (89) 0.0820 13 AD-20085 (53) 0.0842 14 AD-20116 (81) 0.1280 15 AD-20083 (51) 0.1653 16 AD-20042 (11) 0.2470 17 AD-20090 (58) 0.2593 18 AD-20096 (64) 0.3006 19 AD-20120 (85) 0.6189 20 AD-20119 (84) 1.2276 21 AD-20109 (74) 1.2558 22 AD-20077 (45) 2.0044

Example 4 In Vitro Dose Response

For in vitro dose response experiments, cells expressing GNAQ were utilized. Some exemplary cell lines expressing GNAQ include, but are not limited to, human melanoma cell lines OMM1.3 and MeI 202 and MEL-285.

The dsRNAs were screened for in vitro inhibition of the target gene at 1 nM, 0.1 nM, 0.01 nM, and 0.001 nM. Tissue culture cells were transfected with the dsRNA. Target gene mRNA levels were assayed using qPCR (real time PCR).

Cell Culture and Transfection

For knockdown, OMM-1.3, MEL-202 and MEL-285 were grown to near confluence at 37° C. in an atmosphere of 5% CO₂ in RPMI (Invitrogen) supplemented with 10% FBS, streptomycin, and glutamine (ATCC) before being released from the plate by trypsinization. Reverse transfection was carried out by adding 5 μl of Opti-MEM to 5 μl of siRNA duplexes per well into a 96-well plate along with 10 μl of Opti-MEM plus 0.2 μl of Lipofectamine RNAiMax per well (Invitrogen, Carlsbad Calif. cat #13778-150) and incubated at room temperature for 15 minutes. 80 μl of complete growth media without antibiotic containing 2.0×10⁴ OMM-1.3, MEL-202 or MEL-285 cells were then added. Cells were incubated for 24 hours prior to RNA purification. Experiments were performed at 1, 0.1, 0.01 and 0.001 nM final duplex concentration.

Total RNA Isolation Using MagMAX-96 Total RNA Isolation Kit (Applied Biosystem, Foster City Calif., Part #: AM1830):

Cells were harvested and lysed in 140 μl of Lysis/Binding Solution then mixed for 1 minute at 850 rpm using and Eppendorf Thermomixer (the mixing speed was the same throughout the process). Twenty micro liters of magnetic beads and Lysis/Binding Enhancer mixture were added into cell-lysate and mixed for 5 minutes. Magnetic beads were captured using magnetic stand and the supernatant was removed without disturbing the beads. After removing supernatant, magnetic beads were washed with Wash Solution 1 (isopropanol added) and mixed for 1 minute. Beads were capture again and supernatant removed. Beads were then washed with 150 μl Wash Solution 2 (Ethanol added), captured and supernatant was removed. 50 μl of DNase mixture (MagMax turbo DNase Buffer and Turbo DNase) was then added to the beads and they were mixed for 10 to 15 minutes. After mixing, 100 μl of RNA Rebinding Solution was added and mixed for 3 minutes. Supernatant was removed and magnetic beads were washed again with 150 μl Wash Solution 2 and mixed for 1 minute and supernatant was removed completely. The magnetic beads were mixed for 2 minutes to dry before RNA was eluted with 50 μl of water.

cDNA Synthesis Using ABI High Capacity cDNA Reverse Transcription Kit (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif., Cat #4368813):

A master mix of 2 μl 10× Buffer, 0.8 μl 25× dNTPs, 2 μl Random primers, 1 μl Reverse Transcriptase, 1 μl RNase inhibitor and 3.2 μl of H2O per reaction were added into 10 μl, 10 μl total RNA. cDNA was generated using a Bio-Rad C-1000 or S-1000 thermal cycler (Hercules, Calif.) through the following steps: 25° C. 10 min, 37° C. 120 min, 85° C. 5 sec, 4° C. hold.

Real Time PCR:

2 μl of cDNA were added to a master mix containing 0.5 μl GAPDH TaqMan Probe (Applied Biosystems Cat #4326317E), 0.5 μl GNAQ TaqMan probe (Applied Biosystems cat #Hs00387073_m1) and 5 μl Roche Probes Master Mix (Roche Cat #04887301001) per well in a LightCycler 480 384 well plate (Roche cat #0472974001). Real time PCR was done in a LightCycler 480 Real Time PCR machine (Roche). Each duplex was tested in two independent transfections and each transfections was assayed in duplicate.

Real time data were analyzed using the ΔΔCt method. Each sample was normalized to GAPDH expression and knockdown was assessed relative to cells transfected with the non-targeting duplex AD-1955.

The data are presented in Table 18a. Data are expressed as the fraction of message remaining relative to cells targeted with AD-1955. The calculated IC₅₀s are presented in Table 18b.

TABLE 18a In vitro dose response in 3 cell lines Duplex name 1 nM 0.1 nM 0.01 nM 0.001 nM OMM-1.3 AD-20039 0.38 0.46 0.74 0.73 AD-20045 0.42 0.52 0.60 0.79 AD-20051 0.34 0.46 0.63 1.18 AD-20052 0.36 0.37 0.53 0.61 AD-20057 0.32 0.36 0.43 0.59 AD-20063 0.63 0.69 0.99 0.74 AD-20069 0.37 0.35 0.43 0.69 AD-20092 0.42 0.51 0.71 0.75 AD-20099 0.35 0.46 0.52 0.63 AD-20101 0.39 0.57 0.60 0.69 AD-20111 0.64 0.68 0.65 0.70 AD-20113 0.37 0.51 0.71 0.92 AD-20116 0.56 0.58 0.66 0.75 AD-20193 0.45 0.50 0.64 0.75 AD-1955 1.12 1.17 0.83 0.92 MEL-202 AD-20039 0.35 0.44 0.63 0.83 AD-20045 0.30 0.36 0.53 0.55 AD-20051 0.22 0.37 0.67 0.88 AD-20052 0.33 0.39 0.66 0.85 AD-20057 0.28 0.29 0.39 0.77 AD-20063 0.93 0.87 0.95 0.97 AD-20069 0.35 0.39 0.39 0.75 AD-20092 0.37 0.49 0.93 0.98 AD-20099 0.28 0.33 0.61 0.96 AD-20101 0.38 0.46 0.83 0.92 AD-20111 0.67 0.81 0.91 0.98 AD-20113 0.31 0.48 0.82 0.99 AD-20116 0.33 0.34 0.72 0.92 AD-20193 0.32 0.44 0.65 0.87 AD-1955 1.11 0.85 1.11 0.95 MEL-285 AD-20039 0.29 0.47 0.95 1.09 AD-20045 0.39 0.42 0.69 0.86 AD-20051 0.34 0.34 0.73 0.90 AD-20052 0.30 0.53 1.17 1.22 AD-20057 0.37 0.34 0.54 0.86 AD-20063 0.99 1.05 1.52 1.37 AD-20069 0.27 0.33 0.55 0.80 AD-20092 0.39 0.58 0.78 0.82 AD-20099 0.28 0.40 0.92 1.10 AD-20101 0.35 0.57 0.82 1.05 AD-20111 0.75 0.79 0.78 0.73 AD-20113 0.32 0.53 0.92 1.18 AD-20116 0.55 0.51 1.17 0.91 AD-20193 0.42 0.47 0.79 0.95 AD-1955 0.93 1.01 0.93 1.15

TABLE 18b IC₅₀ (pM) in 3 cell lines duplex number MEL202 OMM1.3 A549 AD-20057 0.7 4.3 0.2 AD-20069 1.8 11.5 2.6 AD-20051 2.5 19.7 3.1 AD-20052 2.6 18.3 3.2 AD-20045 2.8 53.8 5.2 AD-20193 3.2 33.5 6.4 AD-20092 3.5 28 9.4 AD-20099 3.6 27 3.3 AD-20101 4.9 53.1 AD-20116 5.5 128 9.8 AD-20113 9.5 62.5 AD-20039 6.1 69.3 13.7

Example 5 Immunostimulatory Assays: Screening siRNA Sequences for Immunostimulatory Ability

Twelve siRNA candidates were tested for induction of cytokines associated with immunostimulation (TNF-alpha and IFN-alpha).

Human PBMC were isolated from whole blood from healthy donors (Research Blood Components, Inc., Boston, Mass.) by a standard Ficoll-Hypaque density gradient centrifugation technique. PBMC (1×10⁵/well/100 μL) were seeded in 96-well flat bottom plates and cultured in RPMI 1640 GlutaMax-1 medium (Invitrogen) supplemented with 10% heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum (Omega Scientific) and 1% antibiotic/antimycotic (Invitrogen).

GNAC siRNAs was transfected into PBMC using N-[1-(2,3-Dioleoyloxy)propyl]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium methylsulfate (DOTAP; Roche). The DOTAP was first diluted in Opti-MEM Reduced Serum medium (Invitrogen) for 5 minutes before mixing with an equal volume of Opti-MEM containing the siRNA. siRNA/DOTAP complexes were incubated for 10-15 minutes at room temperature and subsequently added to PBMC (50 μL/well) which were then cultured at 37° C. 5% CO₂. siRNAs were used at a final concentration of 133 nM. The ratio of RNA to transfection reagent was 16.5 pmoles per μL of DOTAP. Transfections were conducted in quadruplicate in all experiments and were performed within two hours of cell plating. Culture supernatants were collected after 20-24 h and assayed for IFN-α and TNF-α by ELISA.

Cytokines were detected and quantified in culture supernatants with a commercially available ELISA kit for IFN-α (BMS216INST) and TNF-α (BMS223INST) from Bender MedSystems (Vienna, Austria).

Results

The data in Table 19 are presented as a percentage to a AD-5048 stimulated cytokine response. AD-5048 (positive control) corresponds to a sequence that targets human Apolipoprotein B (Soutschek et al., 2004) and elicits both an IFN-α and TNF-α. FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 shows the cytokine induction following transfection with siRNAs.

None of the siRNAs tested demonstrated significant expression of IFN-α and TNF-α in Human PBMCs compared to AD-5048. In particular, AD-20051 and AD-20057 were found to be non immunostimulatory in HuPBMC assay.

TABLE 19 Immunostimulatory activity Duplex name % IFN-α/AD-5048 % TNF-α/AD-5048 AD-20039 0 0 AD-20045 0 0 AD-20051 0 0 AD-20052 0 0 AD-20057 0 0 AD-20069 0 0 AD-20092 0 0 AD-20099 0 0 AD-20101 0 0 AD-20113 0 0 AD-20116 0 0 AD-20193 0 0

Example 6 In Vitro Cell Viability

A set of dsRNAs were screened for effects on in vitro cell viability. Tissue culture cells were transfected with the dsRNA and viability was assayed by staining with CellTiterBLue and microscopic evaluation.

Cell Culture and Transfection

For viability, OMM-1.3, MEL-202 and MEL-285 cells were grown to near confluence at 37° C. in an atmosphere of 5% CO₂ in RPMI, (Invitrogen) supplemented with 10% FBS, Penn/streptomycin, and glutamine (ATCC) before being released from the plate by trypsinization. Reverse transfection was carried out by adding 5 μl of Opti-MEM to 5 μl of siRNA duplexes per well into a 96-well plate along with 10 μl of Opti-MEM plus 0.2 μl of Lipofectamine RNAiMax per well (Invitrogen, Carlsbad Calif. cat #13778-150) and incubated at room temperature for 15 minutes. 80 μl of complete growth media without antibiotic containing 1.0×10³ OMM-1.3, MEL-202 or MEL-285 cells were then added. Cells were incubated for 3, 5 or 7 days prior to viability assays. Experiments were performed at 1, 0.1, 0.01 and 0.001 nM final duplex concentration. All transfections were done in triplicate. The siRNAs PLK, and AD-19200 were included as positive controls (result in loss of viability) and AD-1955 was included as a negative control and was used for data normalization.

Cell Viability Assay

For viability assays, 20 μl of CellTiterBlue (Promega, Cat #G8080) was added and mixed into each well of the culture plate 3, 5 or 7 days after transfection with an siRNAs at 1, 0.1, 0.01 or 0.001 nM final concentration. The plates, containing transfected, cultured cells, media and CellTiterBlue were incubated for 1.5 hours and then read on a SpectraMax M5 plate reader (Molecular Devices) at 560 nm (excitation) and 590 nm (emission).

To measure viability, three replicate wells were averaged and subtracted from background (wells containing media and CellTiterBlue, but no cells). Viability is expressed as a normalized value in which cells transfected with GNAQ specific siRNAs or other controls are compared to cells transfected with AD-1955, a non-targeting duplex, cultured under the same conditions.

Results

The results are shown in Table 20. Graphical summaries of the results comparing viability at 3, 5, and 7 days in a single cell line after treatment with each of the duplexes at a single concentration are shown in FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, and FIG. 6.

The results show decreased cell viability in vitro following GNAQ knockdown that was specific for GNAQ mutant cell lines (e.g., OMM1.3, MEL202), but not GNAQ wild-type (e.g., MEL285) cell lines. In particular these results were shown for duplexes AD-20057, AD-20051, AD-20069, and AD-20093 as illustrated by the graphs in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8.

TABLE 20 Cell viability after treatment with siRNA Day 3 Day 5 Day 7 Conc. (in nM) 0.001 0.001 0.001 1 nM 0.1 nM 0.01 nM nM 1 nM 0.1 nM 0.01 nM nM 1 nM 0.1 nM 0.01 nM nM OMM-1.3 AD-20039 0.95 0.96 1.18 1.27 0.46 0.48 0.79 0.94 0.25 0.52 1.18 1.32 AD-20045 0.99 0.94 1.07 1.20 0.53 0.53 0.70 1.03 0.42 0.44 0.71 1.16 AD-20051 0.78 0.90 1.01 0.63 0.35 0.42 0.65 0.94 0.23 0.35 0.74 1.15 AD-20052 0.82 0.90 1.17 1.38 0.41 0.47 0.79 1.02 0.31 0.45 1.06 1.24 AD-20057 0.86 0.88 0.90 1.31 0.36 0.39 0.49 0.83 0.22 0.31 0.55 1.03 AD-20063 1.26 1.26 1.10 0.53 1.27 1.06 1.04 0.93 1.11 0.95 1.00 1.06 AD-20069 0.79 0.72 0.96 1.16 0.35 0.39 0.46 0.86 0.17 0.21 0.58 0.89 AD-20092 0.68 0.93 1.11 1.15 0.36 0.58 0.85 0.91 0.27 0.63 1.08 0.96 AD-20099 0.51 0.72 0.95 1.07 0.18 0.37 0.58 0.88 0.08 0.22 0.56 0.86 AD-20101 0.72 0.76 1.34 1.53 0.33 0.40 0.78 1.00 0.18 0.39 0.98 0.95 AD-20111 1.25 1.15 1.30 1.32 0.89 1.10 0.87 1.00 0.93 0.95 0.98 0.95 AD-20113 0.56 0.73 1.02 1.03 0.22 0.44 0.75 0.80 0.12 0.35 0.88 0.82 AD-20116 0.82 1.23 1.64 1.88 0.41 0.70 0.92 0.98 0.17 0.51 0.75 0.73 AD-20193 1.22 0.84 1.31 1.67 0.46 0.53 0.66 0.80 0.16 0.30 0.48 0.74 AD-12115 0.60 0.65 1.03 1.00 0.19 0.26 0.62 0.93 0.08 0.26 0.63 0.61 PLK 0.47 0.80 0.65 1.67 0.12 0.54 0.74 1.00 0.06 0.64 0.88 0.78 AD-19200 0.62 0.85 0.72 1.55 0.64 0.78 0.92 0.81 0.64 0.83 0.81 0.87 AD-1955 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 MEL-202 AD-20039 1.21 0.98 1.02 0.93 0.72 0.56 0.79 1.00 0.78 0.66 0.75 0.88 AD-20045 0.95 0.90 0.95 0.85 0.47 0.38 0.61 0.92 0.57 0.36 0.47 0.80 AD-20051 0.70 0.78 0.80 0.38 0.62 0.36 0.77 0.82 0.82 0.42 0.62 0.80 AD-20052 0.98 1.02 1.06 0.93 0.46 0.42 0.67 1.02 0.33 0.55 0.95 1.03 AD-20057 0.61 0.91 0.86 0.85 0.30 0.27 0.47 0.86 0.31 0.34 0.53 0.88 AD-20063 0.91 1.00 1.02 0.37 0.74 0.81 1.01 0.91 1.54 1.32 1.08 1.04 AD-20069 0.77 1.03 0.91 1.00 0.28 0.44 0.43 0.64 0.34 0.37 0.49 0.79 AD-20092 0.87 0.88 0.95 0.87 0.25 0.44 0.70 0.80 0.26 0.73 0.97 1.11 AD-20099 0.80 0.69 0.75 0.41 0.24 0.36 0.53 0.68 0.13 0.26 0.66 1.16 AD-20101 0.72 0.92 0.80 0.87 0.16 0.48 0.57 0.73 0.17 0.51 1.21 0.92 AD-20111 1.18 0.90 0.75 0.84 0.67 0.83 0.74 0.80 1.30 1.37 1.25 1.03 AD-20113 0.63 0.55 0.74 0.36 0.18 0.31 0.66 0.68 0.15 0.37 1.00 1.05 AD-20116 0.42 0.59 0.62 0.93 0.41 0.51 0.73 0.90 0.29 0.38 0.71 0.77 AD-20193 0.39 0.53 0.53 0.94 0.36 0.49 0.70 0.76 0.29 0.32 0.59 0.80 AD-12115 0.22 0.22 0.30 0.50 0.09 0.12 0.42 0.78 0.03 0.04 0.08 0.68 PLK 0.23 0.27 0.37 0.63 0.10 0.16 0.56 0.65 0.03 0.07 0.97 1.19 AD-19200 0.37 0.52 0.49 0.56 0.29 0.75 0.76 0.74 0.44 1.15 1.04 0.85 AD-1955 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 MEL-285 AD-20039 0.58 1.37 1.23 1.23 1.07 1.25 1.13 1.09 0.82 1.06 0.96 0.93 AD-20045 1.16 1.31 1.15 1.05 1.10 1.10 1.12 1.24 0.84 0.85 0.97 0.90 AD-20051 1.14 1.20 0.97 0.98 1.27 1.16 1.06 1.03 0.84 0.99 0.89 0.97 AD-20052 0.63 1.40 1.26 1.04 1.03 1.40 1.42 1.21 0.92 1.02 1.13 0.98 AD-20057 1.14 1.17 1.20 1.04 1.00 1.04 1.26 1.35 0.98 0.98 1.03 1.00 AD-20063 1.10 1.14 0.88 0.89 1.33 1.14 0.94 0.95 1.16 1.05 0.87 0.91 AD-20069 0.46 1.09 1.08 0.96 1.17 1.20 1.03 1.04 1.29 1.17 1.01 0.99 AD-20092 1.02 1.14 1.15 0.96 1.02 1.11 1.03 1.05 1.06 1.11 1.04 1.02 AD-20099 0.89 1.10 0.95 0.95 0.48 0.92 0.96 1.00 0.54 0.91 0.89 1.05 AD-20101 0.70 1.16 1.12 1.04 0.47 1.12 1.41 1.42 0.66 1.01 1.22 1.03 AD-20111 1.12 1.05 1.13 1.01 1.21 1.49 1.30 1.29 1.04 1.18 1.04 1.03 AD-20113 0.81 0.97 1.02 1.03 0.41 0.85 0.81 0.97 0.31 0.76 0.85 1.01 AD-20116 0.50 0.86 1.07 1.01 1.03 0.98 1.03 1.01 0.99 0.91 1.01 0.94 AD-20193 0.91 0.88 1.03 0.94 0.58 0.86 1.25 1.24 0.72 0.80 1.09 1.03 AD-12115 0.34 0.35 0.81 0.43 0.10 0.12 0.54 1.02 0.07 0.12 0.82 1.00 PLK 0.23 0.65 0.46 0.97 0.31 0.54 1.40 1.31 0.18 0.72 1.38 1.17 AD-19200 0.53 0.81 0.68 0.94 0.53 0.77 1.22 1.32 0.46 0.97 1.22 1.15 AD-1955 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00

Example 7 In Vivo Efficacy Studies

The dsRNAs are screened for in vivo inhibition of the target gene in mice. Mice are injected with varying amounts of the dsRNA. Target gene protein levels are assayed using, e.g., mouse plasma and an ELISA with a target gene specific antibody. Target gene mRNA levels are assayed using, e.g., mouse liver and branched DNA assays. The lead candidates are dsRNA that reduce levels of the target gene protein and/or mRNA in a dose-dependent manner.

Regimen for Treatment of Mice with dsRNA

A single-dose IV bolus efficacy study is designed for each dsRNA to be tested: dose level, dosing days, formulation, and number of animals. Mice are intravenously (i.v.) administered target gene specific dsRNA, control dsRNA) or PBS systemically and/or subcutaneously in a range of concentrations, e.g., 1.0 mg/kg, 3.0 mg/kg, or 6.0 mg/kg.

Mice are observed for forty-hours then anesthetized with 200 μl of ketamine, and are exsanguinated by severing the right caudal artery. Whole blood is isolated and placed into EDTA plasma separator tubes and centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 10 minutes. Plasma is isolated and stored at 80° C. until assaying. Liver tissue is collected, flash-frozen and stored at −80° C. until processing.

Efficacy of treatment is evaluated by methods including (i) measurement of protein in plasma at prebleed and at 48 hours post-dose, (ii) measurement of mRNA in liver at 48 hours post-dose, and (iii) efficacy in modulation of target gene specific phenotype, e.g., anti-tumor activity.

Assay of Target Gene Protein in Mouse Plasma

Target plasma levels are assayed by ELISA utilizing the commercially available anti GNAQ antibodies, for example G alpha q (K-17) or G alpha q (E-17) (Santa Cruz Biotechnology Inc. Santa Cruz, Calif., USA, cat #SC-26791 and cat #SC-393), according to manufacturer's guidelines.

Assay of Target Gene mRNA Levels in Mouse Liver

Target gene mRNA levels are assayed utilizing the Branched DNA assays Quantigene 2.0 (Panomics cat #: QS0011). Briefly, mouse liver samples are ground and tissue lysates are prepared. Liver lysis Mixture (a mixture of 1 volume of lysis mixture, 2 volume of nuclease-free water and 10 μl of Proteinase-K/ml for a final concentration of 20 mg/ml.) is incubated at 65° C. for 35 minutes. 20 μl of Working Probe Set (target probe for detection of target gene and GAPDH probe for endogenous control) and 80 ul of tissue-lysate are then added into the Capture Plate. Capture Plates are incubated at 55° C.±1° C. (aprx. 16-20 hrs). The next day, the Capture Plate are washed 3 times with 1× Wash Buffer (nuclease-free water, Buffer Component 1 and Wash Buffer Component 2), then dried by centrifuging for 1 minute at 240 g. 100 ul of pre-Amplifer Working Reagent is added into the Capture Plate, which is sealed with aluminum foil and incubated for 1 hour at 55° C.±1° C. Following 1 hour incubation, the wash step is repeated, then 100 μl of Amplifier Working Reagent is added. After 1 hour, the wash and dry steps are repeated, and 100 μl of Label Probe is added. Capture plates are incubated 50° C.±1° C. for 1 hour. The plate is then washed with 1× Wash Buffer, dried and 100 μl Substrate is added into the Capture Plate. Capture Plates are read using the SpectraMax Luminometer following a 5 to 15 minute incubation. bDNA data are analyzed by subtracting the average background from each triplicate sample, averaging the triplicate GAPDH (control probe) and target gene probe (experimental probe) then taking the ratio: (experimental probe-background)/(control probe-background).

GNAQ Materials and Methods

The GNAQ specific dsRNA are formulated in lipid particles (SNALP) as describe herein and administered systemically or subcutaneously to mice with GNAQ-mutant human uveal melanoma cell tumors implanted in the liver to assess in vivo target knockdown and antitumor activity. The dsRNA duplexes with positive results are selected for further studies to develop a Phase I/II trial in patients with GNAQ-mutant uveal melanoma metastatic to liver.

Example 8 Inhibition of GNAQ in Humans

A human subject is treated with a dsRNA targeted to a GNAQ gene to inhibit expression of the GNAQ gene to treat a condition.

A subject in need of treatment is selected or identified. The subject can have uveal melanoma, cutaneous melanoma, Blue nevi, Nevi of Ota, a neuroendocrine tumor, or a small lung tumor.

The identification of the subject can occur in a clinical setting, or elsewhere, e.g., in the subject's home through the subject's own use of a self-testing kit.

At time zero, a suitable first dose of an anti-GNAQ siRNA is administered to the subject. The dsRNA is formulated as described herein. After a period of time following the first dose, e.g., 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days, the subject's condition is evaluated, e.g., by measuring tumor growth. This measurement can be accompanied by a measurement of GNAQ expression in said subject, and/or the products of the successful siRNA-targeting of GNAQ mRNA. Other relevant criteria can also be measured. The number and strength of doses are adjusted according to the subject's needs.

After treatment, the subject's tumor growth rate is lowered relative to the rate existing prior to the treatment, or relative to the rate measured in a similarly afflicted but untreated subject.

Example 9 GNAQ mRNA Sequences

(SEQ ID NO: 1761) Human GNAQ mRNA NM_002072.2 1 agggggtgcc ggcggggctg cagcggaggc actttggaag aatgactctg gagtccatca 61 tggcgtgctg cctgagcgag gaggccaagg aagcccggcg gatcaacgac gagatcgagc 121 ggcagctccg cagggacaag cgggacgccc gccgggagct caagctgctg ctgctcggga 181 caggagagag tggcaagagt acgtttatca agcagatgag aatcatccat gggtcaggat 241 actctgatga agataaaagg ggcttcacca agctggtgta tcagaacatc ttcacggcca 301 tgcaggccat gatcagagcc atggacacac tcaagatccc atacaagtat gagcacaata 361 aggctcatgc acaattagtt cgagaagttg atgtggagaa ggtgtctgct tttgagaatc 421 catatgtaga tgcaataaag agtttatgga atgatcctgg aatccaggaa tgctatgata 481 gacgacgaga atatcaatta tctgactcta ccaaatacta tcttaatgac ttggaccgcg 541 tagctgaccc tgcctacctg cctacgcaac aagatgtgct tagagttcga gtccccacca 601 cagggatcat cgaatacccc tttgacttac aaagtgtcat tttcagaatg gtcgatgtag 661 ggggccaaag gtcagagaga agaaaatgga tacactgctt tgaaaatgtc acctctatca 721 tgtttctagt agcgcttagt gaatatgatc aagttctcgt ggagtcagac aatgagaacc 781 gaatggagga aagcaaggct ctctttagaa caattatcac atacccctgg ttccagaact 841 cctcggttat tctgttctta aacaagaaag atcttctaga ggagaaaatc atgtattccc 901 atctagtcga ctacttccca gaatatgatg gaccccagag agatgcccag gcagcccgag 961 aattcattct gaagatgttc gtggacctga acccagacag tgacaaaatt atctactccc 1021 acttcacgtg cgccacagac accgagaata tccgctttgt ctttgctgcc gtcaaggaca 1081 ccatcctcca gttgaacctg aaggagtaca atctggtcta attgtgcctc ctagacaccc 1141 gccctgccct tccctggtgg gctattgaag atacacaaga gggactgtat ttctgtggaa 1201 aacaatttgc ataatactaa tttattgccg tcctggactc tgtgtgagcg tgtccacaga 1261 gtttgtagta aatattatga ttttatttaa actattcaga ggaaaaacag aggatgctga 1321 agtacagtcc cagcacattt cctctctatc ttttttttag gcaaaacctt gtgactcagt 1381 gtattttaaa ttctcagtca tgcactcaca aagataagac ttgtttcttt ctgtctctct 1441 ctctttttct tttctatgga gcaaaacaaa gctgatttcc cttttttctt cccccgctaa 1501 ttcatacctc cctcctgatg tttttcccag gttacaatgg cctttatcct agttccattc 1561 ttggtcaagt ttttctctca aatgatacag tcaggacaca tcgttcgatt taagccatca 1621 tcagcttaat ttaagtttgt agtttttgct gaaggattat atgtattaat acttacggtt 1681 ttaaatgtgt tgctttggat acacacatag tttctttttt aatagaatat actgtcttgt 1741 ctcactttgg actgggacag tggatgccca tctaaaagtt aagtgtcatt tcttttagat 1801 gtttaccttc agccatagct tgattgctca gagaaatatg cagaaggcag gatcaaagac 1861 acacaggagt cctttctttt gaaatgccac gtgccattgt ctttcctccc ttctttgctt 1921 ctttttctta ccctctcttt caattgcaga tgccaaaaaa gatgccaaca gacactacat 1981 taccctaatg gctgctaccc agaacctttt tataggttgt tcttaatttt tttgttgttg 2041 ttgttcaagc ttttcctttc ttttttttct tagtgtttgg gccacgattt taaaatgact 2101 tttattatgg gtatgtgttg ccaaagctgg ctttttgtca aataaaatga atacgaactt 2161 aaaaaataaa aaaaaaaaaa aaaaaaaa (SEQ ID NO: 1762) Rat GNAQ mRNA NM_031036 1 atgactctgg agtccatcat ggcgtgctgc ctgagcgagg aggccaagga agcccggagg 61 atcaacgacg agatcgagcg gcagctgcgc agggacaagc gcgacgcccg ccgggagctc 121 aagctgctgc tgctggggac aggggagagt ggcaagagta ccttcattaa gcagatgagg 181 atcatccacg ggtcggggta ctctgatgaa gacaagaggg gctttaccaa actggtgtat 241 cagaacatct ttacagccat gcaggccatg gtcagagcta tggacactct caagatccca 301 tacaagtatg aacacaataa ggctcatgca caattggttc gagaggttga tgtggagaag 361 gtgtctgctt ttgagaatcc atatgtagac gcaataaaga gcttgtggaa tgatcctgga 421 atccaggaat gctacgatag acggcgagaa tatcagctat ctgactctac caaatactat 481 ctgaacgact tggaccgtgt ggctgaccct tcctatctgc ctacacaaca agatgtgctt 541 agagttcgag tccccaccac agggatcatt gagtacccct tcgacttaca gagtgtcatc 601 ttcagaatgg tcgatgtagg aggccaaagg tcagagagaa gaaaatggat acactgcttt 661 gaaaacgtca cctcgatcat gtttctggta gcgcttagcg aatacgatca agttcttgtg 721 gagtcagaca atgagaaccg aatggaggag agcaaagcac tctttagaac cattatcaca 781 tatccctggt tccagaactc ctctgttatt ctgttcttaa acaagaaaga tcttctagag 841 gagaaaatta tgtattccca cctagtcgac tacttcccag aatatgatgg accccagaga 901 gatgcccagg cagcacgaga attcatcctg aagatgttcg tggacctgaa ccccgacagt 961 gacaaaatca tctactcgca cttcacgtgt gccacagaca cggagaacat ccgcttcgtg 1021 tttgctgctg tcaaggacac catcctgcag ctgaacctga aggagtacaa tctggtctaa 

1. A double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) for inhibiting expression of a G-alpha q subunit (GNAQ) of a heterotrimeric G gene, comprising a sense strand and an antisense strand comprising a region of complementarity complementary to an mRNA encoding GNAQ, wherein each strand is at least 15 nucleotides in length.
 2. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein the sense strand consists of SEQ ID NO:1579 and the antisense strand consists of SEQ ID NO:1580.
 3. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein the antisense strand is complementary to at least 15 contiguous nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1421.
 4. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein the antisense strand is complementary to at least the first 11 nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1421.
 5. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein the sense strand comprises 15 or more contiguous nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1421 or SEQ ID NO:1579.
 6. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein the antisense strand comprises 15 or more contiguous nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1422 or SEQ ID NO:1580.
 7. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein the sense strand sequence comprises SEQ ID NO:1421 and the antisense strand sequence comprises of SEQ ID NO:1422.
 8. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein administration of 0.1 nM of the dsRNA to a A375 cell results in about 66% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of 1 nM of the dsRNA to a A375 cell results in about 61% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of 1 nM of the dsRNA to a A579 cell results in about 82% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of 10 nM of the dsRNA to a OMM1.3 cell results in about 42% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay or administration of the dsRNA to a UMEL202 cell results in about 81% inhibition of GNAQ mRNA expression as measured by a real time PCR assay.
 9. (canceled)
 10. (canceled)
 11. (canceled)
 12. (canceled)
 13. (canceled)
 14. (canceled)
 15. (canceled)
 16. (canceled)
 17. (canceled)
 18. (canceled)
 19. (canceled)
 20. (canceled)
 21. (canceled)
 22. (canceled)
 23. (canceled)
 24. (canceled)
 25. (canceled)
 26. (canceled)
 27. (canceled)
 28. (canceled)
 29. (canceled)
 30. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein the region of complementary is at least 15 nucleotides in length.
 31. The dsRNA of claim 30, wherein the region of complementarity is between 19 and 21 nucleotides in length.
 32. The dsRNA of claim 30, wherein the region of complementarity is 19 nucleotides in length.
 33. (canceled)
 34. (canceled)
 35. (canceled)
 36. (canceled)
 37. (canceled)
 38. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein each strand is no more than 30 nucleotides in length.
 39. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein at least one strand comprises a 3′ overhang of at least 1 nucleotide.
 40. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein each strand comprises a 3′ overhang consisting of 2 nucleotides.
 41. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein each strand comprises a 3′ overhang consisting of dTdT.
 42. The dsRNA of claim 1, comprising a modification that causes the dsRNA to have increased stability in a biological sample.
 43. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein said dsRNA comprises at least one modified nucleotide.
 44. The dsRNA of claim 42, wherein said modified nucleotide is selected from the group of: a 2′-O-methyl modified nucleotide, a nucleotide comprising a 5′-phosphorothioate group, and a terminal nucleotide linked to a cholesteryl derivative or dodecanoic acid bisdecylamide group.
 45. The dsRNA of claim 42, wherein said modified nucleotide is chosen from the group of: a 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro modified nucleotide, a 2′-deoxy-modified nucleotide, a locked nucleotide, an abasic nucleotide, 2′-amino-modified nucleotide, 2′-alkyl-modified nucleotide, morpholino nucleotide, a phosphoramidate, and a non-natural base comprising nucleotide.
 46. The dsRNA of claim 42, comprising at least one 2′-O-methyl modified nucleotide and at least one 2′-deoxythymidine-3′-phosphate nucleotide comprising a 5′-phosphorothioate group.
 47. The dsRNA of claim 42, wherein the sense strand comprises all 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines and the antisense strand comprises 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines when the pyrimidine is adjacent to A and each strand comprises dTdT at the 3′ end.
 48. The dsRNA of claim 42, wherein the sense strand comprises all 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines and the antisense strand comprises 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines when the pyrimidine is adjacent to A and each strand comprises dTsdT at the 3′ end.
 49. The dsRNA of claim 42, wherein the sense strand comprises all 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines and the antisense strand comprises 2′-O-methyl modified pyrimidines when a) the pyrimidine is adjacent to A or b) the pyrimidine is a uracil adjacent to a U or a G, and each strand comprises dTsdT at the 3′ end.
 50. The dsRNA of claim 1, further comprising a ligand.
 51. The dsRNA of claim 50, wherein the ligand is conjugated to the 3′-end of the sense strand of the dsRNA.
 52. A composition for inhibiting expression of a GNAQ gene comprising the dsRNA of claim 1 and pharmaceutical formulation.
 53. The composition of claim 52, wherein the pharmaceutical formulation is a lipid formulation.
 54. The composition of claim 52, wherein the pharmaceutical formulation is a LNP formulation, a LNP01 formulation, a XTC-SNALP formulation, a SNALP formulation, or a LNP11 formulation.
 55. An isolated cell containing the dsRNA of claim
 1. 56. A vector comprising a nucleotide sequence that encodes at least one strand of the dsRNA of claim
 1. 57. A cell comprising the vector of claim
 56. 58. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein said dsRNA, upon contact with a cell expressing said GNAQ, inhibits expression of said GNAQ gene by at least 40% compared to a cell not so contacted.
 59. The dsRNA of claim 1, wherein the dsRNA has an 1050 of less than 10 pM.
 60. A method of inhibiting GNAQ expression in a cell, the method comprising: (a) introducing into the cell the dsRNA of claim 1; and (b) maintaining the cell produced in step (a) for a time sufficient to obtain degradation of the mRNA transcript of a GNAQ gene, thereby inhibiting expression of the GNAQ gene in the cell.
 61. (canceled)
 62. A method of treating a disorder mediated by GNAQ expression comprising administering to a human in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of the dsRNA of claim
 1. 63. The method of claim 62, wherein the human has uveal melanoma, cutaneous melanoma, Blue nevi, Nevi of Ota, a small lung tumor, or a neuroendocrine tumors.
 64. (canceled)
 65. (canceled) 